Why Aren’t Black Businesses Getting Contracts?
By Ronda Watson Barber – Publisher
I have heard this for years. Black owned construction companies are still complaining that they are not getting contracts. What’s up? It is 2016, why are Black construction companies and suppliers still not incorporated into public and private construction projects? What are the barriers? Is the system designed to keep Black businesses out? Advocates from across the state are voicing their disapproval about Black companies not getting their fair share of government projects or projects being constructed in predominately minority neighborhoods.
I am under the thought that if entities accept public dollars, there is a moral obligation to make sure there is inclusion in construction and purchasing. All citizens contribute to the tax base. All citizens should have easy access to bid information and the opportunity to fairly compete.
Who’s advocating for Black construction companies? What should Black companies do? Is this issue paramount with our elected officials? Engagement with minority businesses on purchasing opportunities and construction projects has a positive economic impact on the community. Black-owned businesses tend to hire other Black people. Small business is good business.
OhioMBE hosts a monthly procurement fair to introduce small and minority owned businesses to purchasing opportunities. The attitudes of purchasing directors amaze me, particularly those work for public school districts, display towards inclusion. A diverse purchasing base in not a priority, even when they have a larger student of color population. I recently penned a letter to the elected school board and superintendent of the Pickerington Local School District to share my negative experiences with their purchasing and public relations directors None responded. Silence is acceptance. They apparently approve of the current purchasing practices and don’t believe community outreach is a good investment of tax dollars. Nearly thirty percent of their enrolled students are non-white. The Pickerington Local School District gladly accepts the property taxes and other taxes assigned to Black students who attend the district. Ironically they are not interested in sharing with wealth with Black businesses.
Our dollars and votes have power. One way to advocate for Black-owned businesses to use them wisely. Just my thoughts…rwb
