By Ronda Watson Barber
OhioMBE Publisher
In a recent gathering, I met with Black vendors deeply concerned about the current state of affairs in Columbus City Schools. They shared their frustrations about the disproportionate number of contracts awarded to white vendors and businesses outside the district, despite these vendors contributing significantly through higher property taxes.
Our discussion highlighted the systemic racism that seems to be embedded in the purchasing practices of the district. A striking example is the district’s COO, who, despite his claims of being race-neutral, is perceived as a Clarence Thomas-like figure, overseeing a system where district buyers favor white vendors. This situation has led to a growing sense of disenfranchisement among Black vendors, who are experiencing taxation without participation.
We talked about how to shift the district’s mindset. One contractor proposed a more proactive strategy—advocating for filing complaints with federal agencies that fund the district. The idea hinges on the belief that the district’s practices may breach key aspects of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, particularly in terms of equal access and opportunities for Black vendors. A Black LEDE vendor expressed, “Let the feds investigate and make them do right.” Additionally, another contractor recommended exploring a class-action lawsuit, especially given the former purchasing director’s admission in a federal deposition to “keeping undesirables out” of the district’s procurement processes.
If government entities like the City of Columbus and CCS who received public dollarrs are so concerned about white vendors suing them for providing opportunities to those who foot the tax bill, they should be equally concerned about Black vendors doing the same. This highlights a significant imbalance in the district’s approach to vendor engagement and contract distribution.
There’s a strong sense of determination among these vendors. They are as adamant about achieving equity in contracting as the elected board and administration were about passing a tax levy. This marks the birth of a new initiative: the Minority Business Collaborative. Our goal is to ensure that Black businesses are not only contributing through taxes but are also receiving a fair share of contracting opportunities. The vendors are serious and committed to this cause, ready to challenge the status quo and demand the equity they deserve.
The white man’s happiness cannot be purchased by the black man’s misery ~ Frederick Douglass
Just my thoughts…rwb
