Yesterday, I attended a Supplier Diversity Summit, co-sponsored by Columbus City Schools. The event featured sessions by various directors within the district, but it quickly became evident that they are not ready for prime time. This experience shed light on the issues within the district and why Black vendors are being sidelined.
Dr. Keyonna Walker’s refusal to answer my vendor registration question in an open forum, suggesting I ask it in another session, was dismissive and unprofessional. The community engagement representative’s lack of professional dress was another disappointing sight, especially given that they were representing the state’s largest public school district.
The purchasing director’s brief presentation, coupled with his constant watch-checking during others’ presentations, highlighted a lack of interest and respect. Even more troubling was Alex Trevino, the Director of Capital Improvements, casually labeling Columbus as a “City of Poverty” in a room predominantly filled with Black vendors, many who reside in the district. “All the children receive free breakfast and lunch,” he proudly proclaimed. This insensitive remark underscored the disconnect between district administrators and the community they serve. Is “City of Poverty” code for Black?
Trevino’s statement not only insulted the attendees but also shed light on the deeper issues within the district. It explains the neglected buildings, the complacency, and the rewarding of incompetence. White administrators seem comfortable taking paychecks funded by the struggles of poor Black families, who are burdened with massive tax increases. Why would the district ask a “City of Poverty” to face tax increases that primarily benefit white families?
Trevino’s assertion that the LEDE policy is race-neutral shows his lack of commitment to reinvesting in the community that bears the brunt of the tax levy. It’s no surprise that white vendors, who don’t reside in the district, are the primary beneficiaries of the disadvantaged business program. How diverse is the pool of contractors that Capital Improvements utilizes? How many of the contractors reside outside of the district? How diverse is the professional staff , hired by Trevino, in Capital Improvements?
The district officials’ behavior at the summit was inappropriate and untrustworthy. This group cannot be trusted with $60 million, and their actions yesterday were a clear indication of their disregard for Black vendors and the community they claim to serve.
Just my thoughts…rwb
