DOLTON – As a diversity advocate and Black-owned business supporter, State Senator Harris, III (D-Harvey) echoed the importance of increasing the number of opportunities for Black vendors to do business with the state.

“Every local government, industry, and statewide project should include vendors from diverse backgrounds,” Harris said. “Diverse businesses typically encounter barriers that challenge their startup and sustainability efforts. However, our supplier diversity strategies can improve their procurement opportunities.”

On Friday, the Senate Executive, Commerce and Economic Development and State Government committees, and the Senate Special Committee on Supplier Diversity held a joint hearing to cover the importance of increasing the number of opportunities for Black vendors to do business with the state.

To encourage diversity in the transportation industry, Harris sponsored Senate Bill 2304, which urges the National Railroad Passenger Corporation – also known as Amtrak – to submit procurement goals for female-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned and small business enterprises.

Friday’s hearing was the fourth hearing prompted by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus on economic access, equity and opportunity, the third pillar in their four-part agenda to end systemic racism in Illinois. 

The next hearing is scheduled for Oct. 19 at 9:30 a.m. and will cover access to health care. 

To view virtual committee proceedings, visit https://ilga.gov/senateaudvid.asp and click "Watch Live Virtual Committee Video." The link will become available when proceedings begin.