FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: African American Chamber of Commerce PA, NJ, DE
Name: Karina Mackey
Number: 215.751.9501
Email: [email protected]
PHILADELPHIA, PA, December 5, 2023 – As the President and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce for PA, NJ, and DE (AACC), I would like to discuss recent events concerning General Asphalt Paving Co. (GAP) and its business practices. Our Chamber is committed to fairness and opportunity for black-owned businesses, and it is within this context that we approach the situation at hand.
The revelation that GAP created a shell company to circumvent the city’s anti-discrimination policies is concerning. Such practices are detrimental to the spirit of equity and diversity that we strive to uphold in the business community.
We have qualified, eager, and capable Black-owned businesses in every sector who are keen to compete on a level playing field. They have fought through foundational challenges that have made Black Businesses harder to do. They deserve every opportunity possible, which is why we must stay vigilant and act decisively to protect the very systems put in place to address the substantial equity issues we face right here in Philadelphia.
We are appreciative of the City Controller’s Office for bringing this matter to light. The African American Chamber of Commerce has always been an active participant in fostering a fair business environment, and we are relieved to see that appropriate actions are being taken against GAP. This decision is an important step towards maintaining the integrity of our city’s business practices.
While this instance may seem isolated, it has brought to light a broader need for enhanced diligence and transparency in the Request for Proposals (RFPs) process. It is essential that we work together to improve these systems, ensuring they robustly support and verify the participation of genuine minority-owned businesses.
We see this as an opportunity to collaboratively strengthen our procedures and reinforce our commitment to fair business practices. We encourage all involved parties, including City Officials and other business entities, to join us in this effort.
The African American Chamber of Commerce remains dedicated to advocating for the interests and growth of Black-owned businesses. We look forward to continuing our work with the city and other stakeholders to ensure a more equitable and prosperous business environment for all.
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ABOUT AFRICAN AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: The African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ, and DE (AACC) is a membership organization that serves
businesses in the public, private and independent sector who are committed to supporting the economic empowerment and growth of African-American businesses located in the Greater Philadelphia area. The AACC promotes the vision, voice, and value of Black business ownership in the Delaware Valley.
The African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ, and DE (AACC) leads the way for minority-owned businesses in the Delaware Valley and Southeastern Pennsylvania. We foster growth, engage with the community to boost economic conditions, advocate for businesses in government, and facilitate vital partnerships to connect our members with essential resources.
For Media inquiries, contact Karina Mackey, [email protected], 215-751-9501.
