By Ronda Watson Barber
OhioMBE Publisher
In the first column of this series, I asked an important question: What will you do if your advocates quit advocating? Now, let’s go a step further. What will you do to ensure that doesn’t happen?
The people and programs that fight for minority-owned businesses—supplier diversity officers, DEI trainers, and small business support organizations—don’t exist in a vacuum. They need active, engaged support from the businesses they serve to stay effective. Advocacy isn’t one-sided; it’s a relationship.
If we want to protect supplier diversity programs and DEI initiatives, we must show up, speak up, and actively contribute. Here are strategies to take your advocacy to the next level:
1. Amplify the Value of Supplier Diversity
One of the best ways to protect supplier diversity programs is to prove their value. Share success stories about how these programs have positively impacted your business. When decision-makers see tangible results, it’s harder for them to justify cutting these programs.
Don’t stop there—speak up in public forums. Attend school board meetings, city council meetings, industry conferences, and community events where these issues are discussed. Your voice matters, and so does your story.
2. Build Partnerships with Advocacy Groups
Organizations that promote equity in business need your support. Join their events, collaborate on projects, or even volunteer your time. Beyond that, consider formal memberships or sponsorships to help these groups sustain their efforts.
Partnerships are about more than giving back—they’re about strengthening your network and building alliances. Advocacy groups can help amplify your voice while you help amplify theirs.
3. Use Your Purchasing Power
As a business owner, you know the power of the dollar. Be intentional about supporting other small, minority-owned businesses. When you hire a Black-owned contractor, purchase supplies from a women-owned business, or recommend a fellow entrepreneur to your network, you’re helping to create a thriving ecosystem of diverse businesses.
Your purchasing decisions send a message about what you value. Let’s make sure that message is one of equity and inclusion.
4. Educate Yourself and Your Team
The fight for equity in business isn’t just about external advocacy—it starts within your own company. Take the time to educate yourself and your team about the importance of supplier diversity and DEI.
Attend training sessions, webinars, and networking events that focus on these topics. Knowledge is power, and when your team is aligned on these values, you can advocate with confidence and clarity.
5. Provide Financial Support
Advocacy efforts aren’t free. Programs, events, and campaigns need funding to remain viable. If you’ve benefited from a training program, supplier diversity initiative, or DEI workshop, consider donating to the organizations behind them.
This could mean sponsoring an event, buying ad space in a community publication, or simply making a one-time donation. Advocacy groups can’t operate on passion alone—they need tangible support to continue fighting for equity.
Why This Matters
The reality is, without our active participation and investment, the programs we rely on could vanish. The fight for equity in business requires all of us—advocates, small business owners, and allies—to work together.
Protecting supplier diversity and DEI programming isn’t just about ensuring opportunities for today. It’s about laying a foundation for future generations of entrepreneurs to thrive.
As we approach 2025, it’s time to reflect on what actions we’re willing to take to preserve the programs and people fighting for us. Advocacy starts with you. Are you ready to step up?
just my thoughts…rwb
