Your article “$1 Billion Impact reports $275M in new MBE contracts” makes a very important statement about the progress that is being made to advance opportunities for minority businesses in the St. Louis market.
I would like to congratulate and encourage continued efforts on numerous fronts, particularly in the minority construction industry, to bring about greater economic parity and self-sufficiency. The partnerships and collaborations that are being formed are resulting in commendable and positive action. Independent initiatives that create self-sufficiency and community empowerment are evolving simultaneously. Solutions to racial challenges and inclusion are not just being discussed, task forces and contracts are being generated.
Last year when James Webb, President of the Minority Supplier Development Council, announced his $1Billion Dollar Initiative many thought it was unachievable. However, one year later he has reported $275M in new MBE contracts with only 14 MBEs reporting. It is a significant step forward and should be commended.
More reports of action-oriented and positive dialogue are occurring. In 2011, Michael Kennedy Jr., President of KAI Design and Build, prompted dialogue by taping comments of representatives for a 40-minute video entitled: “Building a Better St. Louis: Voices of Reason from a Region at the Crossroads of Diversity.” The project allowed opposing voices to express their views on the history, challenges and solutions for minority inclusion in the construction industry.
In March 2012, Stephen Lewis, Vice President of the Associated General Contractors of St. Louis (AGC), released a survey addressing minority inclusion that rippled into mobilizing task forces along with its already existing diversity committee. The committee is now chaired by Michael Kennedy Jr.
Recently, the Office of the License Collector collaborated with the U.S. Department of Commerce-International Trade Division to host a Manufacturer’s Briefing to assist manufacturers and MBEs/WBEs. Like James Webb, I am optimistic that these kinds of initiatives will position St. Louis as an economic leader.
Recently, MOKAN opened their doors to a new building on Natural Bridge. The renovation labor was donated by minority contractors. The building is located in North St. Louis, which will help stabilize the neighborhood for future growth.
The Minority Contractor’s Initiative (MCI) under the leadership of Kem Mosley, Executive Director, has brought a contemporary focus to training and credentialing of minority contractors. Their advisory board is headed by both Michael Kennedy Sr. and Jr.
Malik Ahmed, President, CEO and Founder of Better Family Life, has brought to fruition a 29-year vision of a Better Family Life Cultural Educational & Business Center. The project reflects a partnership between McCormack Baron Salazar and KAI Design & Build. Fifth Third Bank’s involvement began with the vision and leadership of Royce Sutton, Vice President.
On December 15, 2011, I wrote letters to the Board of Trustees of the Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD).“Though MSD has been a good corporate citizen in many ways, they should readily serve as a model by becoming seamlessly proactive in their minority inclusion strategy, I wrote. “I join the many voices of reason making an appeal to MSD for immediate proactive solutions for minority and women inclusion.”
I am pleased that MSD is moving forward with key organizations and companies to ensure job training, education, employment and contracts for minorities and women.
Across the board whether small or large companies, minority or general contractors, there is forward action and more positive and candid responses to shared interests. Each of us should become monitors of progress to raise the bar of expectations and opportunities for all.
Is it enough? Definitely not. There will be debates for a long time on what is enough, but we must remain vigilant.
And MBEs/WBEs, please persist in seeking contracts. Be consistent in skilled performance and reliable in providing services, while staying in touch with industry trends. Collectively this will help keep you in the pipeline of opportunities, easily accessible and readily responsive to opportunities.
Michael McMillan is Chairman of the Board, St. Louis Community Empowerment Foundation and License Collector of the City of St. Louis.
