In an era where diversity and inclusion are more crucial than ever, Ramiro Cavazos stands as a beacon of leadership for the Latino business community. As the President and CEO of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) in Washington D.C., Cavazos has emerged as a powerful advocate for Hispanic entrepreneurs, dedicated to combating discrimination and bias in both private and public sector contracting.
A Legacy of Leadership
Cavazos’s journey to becoming one of the most influential voices in Hispanic business began in San Antonio, Texas. As the former President and CEO of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SAHCC), he honed his skills in economic development and advocacy, leading to the SAHCC receiving recognition as a 5-star accredited chamber—the highest designation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
His unique background, which encompasses roles in city management, banking, and global public affairs, equips him exceptionally well for his current position. This diverse experience allows him to approach challenges from various perspectives, making him a formidable advocate for Latino business interests.
Addressing Economic Discrimination
Under Cavazos’s leadership, the USHCC has been at the forefront of addressing the economic discrimination faced by Hispanic-owned businesses. Despite Latinos representing 19-20% of the U.S. population and contributing approximately $2.8 trillion to the economy, Fortune 500 companies procure only 2% of their goods and services from Hispanic-owned businesses. Even more alarming is the fact that a mere 1.7% of federal government contracts are awarded to these vital enterprises.
“That’s not fair,” Cavazos states emphatically. “Latinos represent one of every 5 U.S. residents. Fortune 500 companies sell us their products and employ our people, but they don’t do business with us. That’s where we see economic discrimination in this country.”
Advocacy in the Age of AI
As artificial intelligence emerges as a transformative force in the business world, Cavazos and the USHCC are leading the charge to ensure that Latino businesses are not left behind. At the USHCC Legislative Summit 2024, Cavazos highlighted the unique opportunities and challenges that AI presents for the Latino community.
While AI technologies offer potential for economic empowerment and educational advancement, they also raise concerns about job displacement and algorithmic bias. Cavazos underscores the necessity for collaborative efforts involving the tech industry, policymakers, and community leaders to navigate these complexities and maximize positive outcomes for the Latino community.
Cavazos states, “AI can be a powerful tool for Latino small businesses, but we need to ensure that these businesses have access to the technology and training required to thrive in this new landscape. Without equitable access, we risk widening the economic gap, rather than closing it.”
The Power of Latino Entrepreneurship
The significance of Cavazos’s work becomes even more apparent when we consider the latest data from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Hispanic-owned businesses now number around 5 million, contributing approximately $800 billion to the American economy annually. This represents a remarkable potential for growth and impact, particularly if coupled with the right policies and support systems.
As Ramiro Cavazos continues to champion the cause of Latino entrepreneurs, he reminds us that fostering an inclusive economy isn’t just a goal, but a necessity. By advocating for equitable opportunities for Hispanic businesses, he not only uplifts a vital segment of the American workforce but also reinforces the message that diversity is essential for the health and prosperity of the entire economy.
Louis R. Escareño is an attorney in private practice in San Antonio, Texas and is on the Board of Directors of La Prensa Texas.
