People don't have to agree with the state's plunge into slot-machine gambling to be in accord with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board's plan to hold a Gaming Diversity Forum to promote the inclusion of women- and minority-owned businesses in the commonwealth's emerging gaming industry.

The forum is planned tentatively for September at a site to be announced. It will provide an overview of gaming in the state as well as advance diversity among manufacturers and suppliers.

"The Gaming Diversity Forum will ensure that women and minorities are able to participate fully in the new, multibillion-dollar industry that gaming will become in Pennsylvania," said Thomas A. "Tad" Decker, chairman of the gaming control board.

Act 71 of 2004 requires the gaming board to promote diversity in all aspects of gaming in Pennsylvania. Decker said the forum likely would be a daylong event consisting of three main sessions and networking opportunities for participants.

The state's economy shouldn't have to rely on gambling. But, since it apparently does, the industry should not be closed to any legitimate segment of the population or business community.

The forum will be a right step in that direction.