Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves recently addressed attendees at the Department of Commerce Hispanic Heritage Month Reception. He emphasized the importance of partnerships with Latino leaders in both public and private sectors to ensure that departmental programs promote growth and opportunities for all.

"Secretary Raimondo and I view our partnership with Latino leaders in the public and private sectors as critical to ensuring Departmental programs and initiatives to promote growth and opportunities for all people," Graves stated.

Graves highlighted his dual role, also serving as President Biden’s Puerto Rico Economic Growth Coordinator. He shared his experiences from a recent visit to Puerto Rico, emphasizing the impact of investments on local communities.

"In addition to my role as Deputy Secretary of Commerce, I also serve as President Biden’s Puerto Rico Economic Growth Coordinator. In that role, I have had the opportunity to deliver transformative results for communities across the archipelago," he said.

He stressed that equity is central to the mission at the Commerce Department. "We understand that while economic opportunity is available for some, it’s not accessible to all," Graves noted.

Graves praised the achievements under the Biden-Harris Administration, mentioning significant investments in infrastructure, domestic manufacturing, and climate action. He acknowledged contributions from members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC).

"All of this was made possible thanks to the work of members of the CBC, who do an incredible job delivering for the American people," he remarked.

The Deputy Secretary discussed various initiatives aimed at supporting minority communities. The Minority Business Development Agency's $125 million Capital Readiness Program is one such initiative providing resources and technical assistance to underserved entrepreneurs.

"We’re investing $50 billion to connect everyone in America to quality reliable and affordable high-speed Internet service," Graves added, noting that a portion is directed towards equity-focused programs.

Graves also mentioned investments in semiconductor manufacturing aimed at including minority businesses in these ecosystems. "We’re investing $50 billion to make America a leader in semiconductor manufacturing," he said.

As Chair of the Interagency Community Investment Committee, Graves highlighted efforts launched by Vice President Harris three years ago. The committee focuses on ensuring investments reach often overlooked communities.

"And the committee is continuing the Vice President’s Economic Opportunity Tour," he stated.

He emphasized that diversity within Commerce leadership and workforce is crucial. "Here at Commerce, it’s critical that our leadership and our workforce reflect the diversity of this nation," Graves said.

Graves pointed out historical systemic discrimination against minority communities but expressed optimism about current efforts led by President Biden and Vice President Harris to address these issues intentionally.

"It’s no accident that we have awarded nearly $300M to 91 Minority-serving institutions," he noted, referencing efforts like signing an MOU with HACU for increased partnerships with Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).

Graves concluded by stressing intentional actions taken by current leadership aimed at making impactful changes for Latino families across America. "And that, my friends, is why it is so important to make the choice of who we put in these positions – to whom we give a seat at the table – a priority."

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