U.S. Black Chambers: “Our Fight For Economic Empowerment And Inclusion Continues”

By U.S. Black Chambers Photos: U.S. Black Chambers\YouTube Screenshot\Wikimedia Commons [Washington, D.C., January 17, 2024] – In the wake of recent developments challenging the progress made in fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion for Black and minority-owned businesses, the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) stands at the forefront, advocating for the rights and opportunities that are essential for the growth and success of these businesses. A pivotal moment in this struggle is the United States District Court ruling in Ultima Servs. Corp. v. Dep’t of Ag., which has significant implications for the Small Business Administration’s (SBA)  8(a) Business Development Program. This ruling has raised concerns about the program’s determination of social disadvantage, potentially hindering the support provided to Black and minority entrepreneurs. Due to the ruling, the SBA temporarily paused new 8 (a) applications and began requiring businesses in the program that relied on the rebuttable presumption to prove social disadvantage in a narrative detailing past discrimination before they could accept new contract awards. This unfair ruling adds an increased burden of proof, potential delay in contract awards, disruption of program access, impact on economic empowerment, and potential for inequitable outcomes. Furthermore, in recent headlines, the quiet sunset of Goldman Sachs’...