BUILDING A DIVERSE FUTURE: Advocating for Minority Representation in Buffalo’s Construction Industry
BY ERIC PERRY
On November 19, 2025, The East Buffalo Development Corporation and the Independent Contractors Guild of Western New York (ICG) hosted a vibrant community forum, addressing critical issues in the construction industry, at the Frank E. Merriweather Library in Buffalo, NY. This gathering brought together contractors, advocates, and industry leaders to share their experiences and discuss strategies for enhancing minority representation and equity in construction projects.
A significant concern raised during the forum was the lack of representation of Black owned construction companies in Buffalo. Despite the city’s rich history and diverse community, many attendees noted that Black contractors often struggle to secure contracts, limiting their opportunities for growth and sustainability. One participant expressed, “It’s disheartening to see funds being taken from our community without giving back to those who build it.”
The systemic barriers contributing to this lack of representation were a focal point of discussion. Another attendee articulated the frustration many feel, stating, “Who holds contractors responsible for meeting Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) goals?” This lack of accountability within the contracting process has led to a cycle where Black-owned businesses are frequently overlooked in favor of larger, established firms that may not reflect the community’s diversity.
Unity and collaboration among minority contractors were emphasized as vital to fostering successful business opportunities. One speaker highlighted, “We need trust within our community to build successful businesses and opportunities.” The importance of community support was echoed by another participant, who noted, “We are here to support our community and help navigate the industry.”
Personal stories shared during the forum highlighted the challenges faced by minority contractors, including discrimination and blacklisting. One contractor candidly discussed his experiences, saying, “I’ve faced discrimination and blacklisting; it’s incredibly difficult to be excluded from opportunities.” This sentiment reinforced the need for collective action to address systemic issues affecting minority contractors.
As the forum concluded, participants expressed a shared commitment to creating a more equitable construction industry. The conversations sparked a sense of hope and motivation to continue advocating for change and supporting one another in their professional journeys.
Major themes discussed included workforce development, the pressing need for accountability in contracts, and the impact of racism and discrimination on minority contractors. Participants explored the existing legislative framework supporting MBE participation and emphasized the importance of networking among minority contractors to create a united front.
The lack of Black construction companies being utilized in Buffalo underscores the need for systemic change. Attendees emphasized that fostering relationships between local governments, developers, and minority contractors is crucial for ensuring that the community’s needs are met and that opportunities are equitably distributed.
The event highlighted the collective strength of the community and reinforced the commitment to creating better opportunities for minority contractors in the construction industry. With plans for ongoing dialogue and collaboration, attendees left inspired to continue their advocacy for change, showcasing the power of community engagement in building a brighter future for all in the construction sector.