Incident Sparks Outrage
A Cleveland construction site recently became the center of attention after an incident involving a racist display. According to a report from the Cleveland Police Department, the disturbing display was discovered at the site of what will eventually become the City Club Apartments. Workers from Owes Versatility Construction, a Black-owned company contracted to work on the project, found a brown cardboard cutout hanging from a noose. Written on the cutout were the words, “My motivation to work.” The report also notes that this group of employees had been dealing with racist remarks at the site since July, making the discovery of the display the culmination of ongoing harassment.
After finding the display, the group of workers decided not to return to the site due to concerns about their safety. The incident highlights a broader issue that Black and Hispanic workers often face at construction sites across the city.
History of Racism in the Construction Industry
Glenn Shumate, the Executive Vice President of the Construction Employers Association, has spoken out about the issue. He mentioned that he has witnessed similar occurrences on construction sites over the years. The association, which represents approximately 500 employees, has received numerous reports of racial slurs and derogatory graffiti on construction sites. Shumate noted that the issues go beyond racism and include gender-based discrimination as well, with graffiti targeting women in the industry.
A Call for Unity
The recent incident has prompted local leaders and contractors to call for unity and reform within Cleveland’s construction industry. On Monday, members of the Unity for the Betterment of Cleveland gathered on the steps of City Hall to voice their concerns. Representatives from the city, alongside local contractors, stood together to address the ongoing issues faced by minority workers in the industry.
One participant highlighted the severity of the issue, stating that such incidents should not be brushed off as mere misunderstandings. He referenced the display found at the City Club Apartments construction site, emphasizing that it was not an innocent mistake but a blatant act of harassment. The message written on the cutout—”My motivation to work”—was seen as an inflammatory statement directed at the workers.
Response from Cleveland Construction
Cleveland Construction, the company overseeing the City Club Apartments project, responded to the allegations. A spokesperson for the company issued a statement, clarifying that the individual responsible for the display was not a Cleveland Construction employee. The spokesperson also mentioned that the individual had been asked not to return to the project site. However, the company’s statement also noted that, based on their initial investigation, the incident did not appear to be racially motivated.
Despite the company’s position, many minority workers in Cleveland’s construction industry argue that such incidents are part of a pattern of discrimination. They contend that racist displays, derogatory remarks, and other forms of harassment are a common occurrence on job sites.
Industry-Wide Efforts for Change
The latest incident has prompted industry leaders to push for greater accountability and reform. Shumate, along with others in the industry, emphasized the need for a culture shift in construction. They are advocating for more equitable opportunities for minority workers and a more inclusive working environment. Leaders are also calling for stricter accountability measures to address instances of racism, harassment, and discrimination when they occur.
Shumate and others have expressed that hate has no place on Cleveland’s construction sites. They believe that, in addition to providing fair and equitable opportunities, the industry must take more robust steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all workers, regardless of their race or gender.
Conclusion
The incident at the City Club Apartments construction site has brought renewed attention to the issue of racism in Cleveland’s construction industry. While companies like Cleveland Construction have taken steps to distance themselves from the behavior, minority workers say these types of incidents are all too common. Local leaders and industry advocates are calling for meaningful changes, including increased accountability and greater representation for minority workers. As efforts to shine a light on these issues continue, the hope is that the construction industry will take significant steps to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all workers.
