What happens next? South Florida’s black business leaders on racism and the path forward

They sit in C-suites with bay views, broker high-profile deals and earn enviable salaries. But for all their apparent success, Miami’s black business executives say they are profoundly dismayed by ongoing racial disparity in America.

As protests continue over the death of George Floyd, we asked 10 to share their views on race, community and business, and the path forward. Here’s what they had to say.

▪ Leigh-Ann Buchanan, executive director, Venture Café Miami: Innovation works only when it is accessible and inclusive.

▪ Luther Campbell, rapper and activist: The system has failed people of color. Non-blacks must vote for change.

▪ Jaret L. Davis, co-managing shareholder, Greenberg Traurig’s Miami office: Admitting our mutual pain is first step.

▪ John Dixon, executive director, Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust: Little has changed since the McDuffie riots 40 years ago. COVID-19 has widened the economic gap.

▪ Arnold Donald, president and CEO of Carnival Corp.: Racism is real. The only way through is ... forward.

▪ Albert E. “Al” Dotson Jr., managing partner, Bilzin Sumberg: Our community is at a crossroads. Will local leaders step up, as they should?

▪ Michael A. Finney, president and CEO, Miami-Dade Beacon Council: Protests are a spur for real change for black Americans.

▪ Shaheewa Jarrett Gelin, founder and president, Broward County Black Chamber of Commerce: In America, you are still black first, and all are urged to speak out against injustice.

▪ Felecia Hatcher, co-founder, CodeFever and Black Tech Week: Miami tech community needs to invest in black opportunity.

▪ Germaine Smith-Baugh, president and CEO, Urban League of Broward County: George Floyd can no longer speak up — but we can. Corporations have a responsibility to lead the conversation.

This story was originally published June 8, 2020 at 6:00 AM.