Advocate! Resist! Unite!
By Ronda Watson Barber
OhioMBE Publisher
Throughout 2017, I have used the theme Advocate! Resist! for my columns. I strongly believe that collectively we are powerful. Our votes are important. Our spending power matters. United we are strong. There is a bunch of crazy going in our country and communities from the White House to the local level. Issues that impact Black businesses are not being addressed.
As 2017 comes to a close, I am hopeful you resolve to work diligently to make our Union more perfect. Frederick Douglass said, “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will. Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have found out the exact measure of injustice and wrong which will be imposed upon them.”
In 2018 we need to use our power to advocate for our businesses to be included in government purchasing. Taxation without participation can not continue to occur. We need to hold elected officials accountable for their actions, legislations and votes. Action is necessary and required. We can’t sit on the sidelines. Advocacy is imperative. Your voice is needed. United we can make a difference. Regularly, I received accolades from elected officials and minority businesses for my leadership in assisting and speaking out on issues of importance to Black businesses. Advocating is hard work. Advocacy isn’t free. I need allies and support as I fight for the inclusion of Black businesses in organizations’ purchasing schemes. As you make your resolutions for 2018, please seriously consider supporting the activities and programming of OhioMBE. Advertise your business in OhioMBE and our business directory. Attend an OhioMBE Procurement Fair to make new contracting connections. Join the newly established OBDC/OhioMBE Minority Planroom.
The end of the year brings no greater joy than the opportunity to express to you season’s greetings and good wishes. May your holidays and New Year be filled with joy.
Just my thoughts…rwb
Published in OhioMBE – Dec. 15, 2017 – pdf
