WASHINGTON –  Today, the Black Economic Alliance (BEA), a nonpartisan group founded by Black executives and business leaders, commended Democratic presidential candidates former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg and former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick on the release of their respective economic agendas for Black America – the “Greenwood Initiative” and “An Equity Agenda for Black Americans.”  Charles Phillips, Co-Chair of BEA, released the following statement in response to the plans:

“The breadth and vision of these proposals are designed to address the disparities – particularly economic – that have long stifled the dreams and aspirations of Black Americans.  As the nation celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., these times demand new perspectives and actionable plans to remedy enduring systemic inequities.

“The Black Economic Alliance has written a 2020 Black Economic Policy white paper that we have shared with several candidates and offer to all.   We’ve appreciated the opportunity to influence the policies of Mayor Bloomberg, Governor Patrick, and other candidates as they’ve moved the issue of economic opportunity for Black Americans to the forefront of the nation’s agenda.  

“Last year, during the BEA-sponsored presidential forum in South Carolina, candidates Elizabeth Warren and Pete Buttigieg also highlighted their newly created plans relevant to work, wages and wealth in African-American communities.  Mayor Buttigieg released his Douglass Plan to reduce racial inequities, and Senator Warren proposed the Small Business Equity Fund with $7 billion in grants for minority businesses.  We applaud those candidates who recognize the importance of advancing economic opportunity for all.

“While BEA has not yet formally endorsed a presidential candidate, the organization will review and assess the policy proposals put forth by all candidates to determine which will best close the economic gaps confronting Black America.  We look forward to impactful proposals from all.”