The AMAC Economic Opportunity & Policy Forum is a crucial platform for our members to convene annually in the nation’s capital. This gathering is not just a mere event but a significant opportunity for us to engage with lawmakers and address our economic challenges. Headlines reflect the ongoing struggle to protect policies that safeguard the interests of working Americans. With the recent overturn of affirmative action protections, the time is ripe for us to unite and influence lawmakers to uphold and enhance programs like the ACDBE program. These initiatives are instrumental in ensuring the full employment of entire communities, particularly by facilitating the participation of small and disadvantaged businesses in the aviation and aerospace industry. Failing to support local and diverse enterprises could result in multinational organizations dominating airport operations, with the profits flowing overseas. This not only puts the United States at risk of losing its global competitiveness but also a risk to overall national security. A more sustainable approach is to advocate for policies that foster investment in small and underrepresented businesses.
Day One
On the forum’s first day, AMAC members, as the driving force of our organization, gathered outside the iconic Capitol Building. The day they kicked off with a photo opportunity, capturing the spirit of unity and purpose. Following this, members were guided through the building’s security checks and led to the Congressional Auditorium. Here, they were presented with insightful discussions and engaging presentations, setting the tone for the rest of the forum. Members heard from Congressman Jesus G. “Chuy” Garcia (IL-04); Shivani Pampati, Director of Tax and Economic Policy for Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD); Franklin Lee of Tydings & Rosenberg, LLP; Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07); and Congressman Glen Ivey (MD-04). The messages were clear — federal programs that promote diverse participation are at risk, and we are responsible for educating and fighting to protect them as active advocates. Congressional leaders urged AMAC members to share the importance of these programs with federal and local decision-makers. They reminded us all that our voices are heard through our voting power. The afternoon was spent in small groups based on region, meeting with various members of Congress to advocate for continued diverse participation in federal contracting.
Day Two
The second day of the forum began with a recorded greeting from Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, followed by in-person remarks from Eric Morrissette, Acting Undersecretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development. Morrissette shared that the government expects to issue $5.4B in contracts this year alone. Day two also consisted of engaging panel discussions on topics ranging from DE&I, FAA policy updates, and strategies airports use to maintain (and increase) competitive business environments. Day two ended with a momentous event: the historic signing of the Equity in Infrastructure Pledge by AMAC President & CEO Eboni Wimbush and AMAC Board of Directors Chair/ Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport CEO Ricky Smith. This commitment and unity should make us all proud and hopeful for the future. They were joined by Phil Washington, Denver International Airport CEO/EIP Co-Founder; John Porcari, Former DOT Deputy Secretary/ EIP Co-Founder; and Dorval Carter, Jr., Chicago Transit Authority President/ EIP Co-Founder.
Day Three
The forum’s final day consisted of lively panel discussions centered around access to capital and removing barriers in contracting for minority-owned businesses. AMAC members heard an informative keynote address from Alejandra Castillo, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development, who urged the membership to continue efforts in education and advocacy. The forum ended with legislative priorities, and feedback from Capitol Hill Day was shared with the group. Themes of advocacy, engagement, and urgency underscored the recap, with the AMAC Government Affairs Committee reminding members there is an active assault on affirmative action and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and policies. It is up to each member to be engaged, loud, and persistent. Our global competitiveness is at risk. As Nigel Stephens of Phoenix Strategies stated, “The United States can’t compete with China if you take out its diverse businesses.”
