Debate in Louisiana over the lack of a MBE program and Civil Rights Act
“The State of Louisiana has no minority business program – in violation of the Civil Rights Act. We are going to make that a major campaign debate in the upcoming election for Governor” writes Harry Alford,co-founder, President/CEO, of the National Black Chamber of Commerce.
Since the Katrina hurricane and disaster in New Orleans, debate has increased over the use of federal monies going to Louisiana. Minority owned companies are unhappy with the states hiring policies. But Alford also says that New Orleans does not have enough Black contractors to meet the upcoming demand nor the bonding capacity. “In response we are starting a Bonding Assistance Program beginning July 26. After completion of this program local contractors should have significantly more bonding capacity that will enable them to perform more work like never before. We are also recruiting bona fide and qualified Black owned firms to relocate to the New Orleans area on a permanent basis. The more active Black contractors we have, the more available jobs for the Black community.”The destruction that wrecked the lives and homes of so many in Louisiana must be dealt with. Constructing new homes is a start for the local communities to heal. Federal programs must guarantee equal opportunity so as to bring economic regeneration for all the local communities.
