DEI Policies Rollback Threatens Future of Minority, Women Contractors in Illinois
Abrupt Changes Affecting Small Businesses
The dismantling of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives has sent shockwaves through the contracting industry in Illinois, leaving minority and women contractors bracing for major changes. For Jeannette Chavarria-Torres, President of DCH Construction and Hauling, the news has added more hurdles to an already challenging environment.
Chavarria-Torres’ Experience
Chavarria-Torres has spent the last decade building her business, making connections, and shattering glass ceilings. She attributes her success to hard work and inclusive programs such as DB and MWBE initiatives. These programs helped her gain introductions and opportunities to prove herself as a high-performing contractor.
Concerns about Impact
Jacqueline Gomez, Executive Director of the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA), fears that without city or state project goals for participation by minority subcontractors, the work will be taken in-house or elsewhere. She believes that DEI initiatives give small businesses an opportunity to participate and that the rollback will have a significant impact on the industry.
Previous Challenges
DEI initiatives have faced challenges in the past. Recently, The American Alliance for Equal Rights (AAER) filed a lawsuit against an Illinois law that requires non-profits to publicize race demographics on their staff and board members. In a statement to WGN News, AAER President Edward Blum said that officers and board members of nonprofits should be selected based on individual talents, experience, and interests, not the color of their skin.
Looking Ahead
Chavarria-Torres plans to focus on her current relationships to show her company is worth keeping. Gomez, on the other hand, believes that HACIA will continue to work with legislators at the state and local level to advocate for equity and inclusion.
Cook County’s Experience
Gomez points out that Cook County saw a similar trend play out 20 years ago when they lost their diversity program. As a result, participation numbers by minority and woman-owned businesses plummeted. Gomez hopes to prevent a similar outcome in Illinois.
Conclusion
The rollback of DEI policies in Illinois threatens the future of minority and women contractors. Small businesses like DCH Construction and Hauling may struggle to maintain their footing in the industry without the support of inclusive programs. As the contracting industry adapts to these changes, it remains to be seen how these small businesses will weather the storm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is DEI policy rollback?
A: The DEI policy rollback refers to the dismantling of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives by the Trump administration.
Q: What is the impact on minority and women contractors?
A: The rollback of DEI policies is expected to have a significant impact on minority and women contractors, potentially leading to reduced opportunities and increased competition from larger, more established companies.
Q: What are the goals of DEI initiatives?
A: DEI initiatives aim to increase diversity and inclusion in the contracting industry by setting goals for participation by minority and women subcontractors in public projects and private development.
Q: What is HACIA doing to advocate for equity and inclusion?
A: HACIA is working with legislators at the state and local level to advocate for equity and inclusion and to prevent the negative impact of the DEI policy rollback.
