Councilor Worrell Delivers His Maiden Speech

In his speech, Councilor Worrell shared that “every data report surrounding quality of life, health, wealth, and education in the City of Boston tells us that Black and Brown communities are still facing too many systemic barriers that their white counterparts are not.”



“According to a Virginia Commonwealth University study, in the three miles that separate Grove Hall from Symphony Hall, there is a 30 year difference in lifespan,” said Councilor Worrell. Another study he shared spoke to the wealth gap in Boston and highlighted that “the median net worth for Black Bostonians is $8 compared to $247,500 to White Bostonians.”



“Growing up in Dorchester the residents that make up these statics are family members, friends and neighbors. In my own life, I have watched some of these inequities play out everyday,” said Councilor Worrell.



Just last year, only 1.2% of city contracts went to Black owned and Latinx owned businesses. As his first act as a City Councilor, Councilor Worrell says his hearing order will provide accountability and urgency to create equity in city contracting. “Creating equity in our city contracting will build capacity for entrepreneurs of color who are more likely to reinvest in anchoring neighborhoods, create jobs for local residents, and support community initiatives,” he said.



His hearing order was assigned to the Committee on Labor, Workforce and Economic Development for further discussion.



Listen to Councilor Worrell's maiden speech.