Bartlett releases statement on Gov. Braun ending minority- and women-owned business contracting

Today, Gov. Mike Braun announced that he will be ending the minority- and women-owned business contracting programs within Indiana's Diversity Business Enterprises (DBE) program.

State Rep. John L. Bartlett (D-Indianapolis), an appointee to the Governor's Commission on Supplier Diversity, released the following statement in response to this move backward:

"Governor,

"The direction of recent developments across our country and here in Indiana has left many Hoosiers deeply unsettled, fearing a regression toward injustices our nation vowed never to repeat.

"In moments like this, leadership requires transparency. Maya Angelou’s wisdom, 'When someone shows you who they are, believe them,' reminds us that actions reveal character, and your constituents are looking to yours.

"They need you to articulate clearly what you are doing. In my opinion, you are not safeguarding their liberties nor their future. As I look at your actions, it seems to me that you are putting Indiana on the road back to slavery.

"You were elected to govern all Hoosiers. Let’s be fair in your judgment."