Dallas Business Journal 40 Under 40 void of Young Black Business Talent

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I find it odd that the Dallas Business Journal has compiled a list for their 40 under Forty Award that has zero African-American Males and zero African-American Females. I wasn’t able to get my hands on a physical copy of the journal which dropped yesterday (sold out), but I did click on all 40 names listed which included pictures, and there was no (visible) African-American representation on the list.

I find it interesting that D CEO has executive Gail Warrior-Lawrence (Warrior Group) on this month’s cover for their Super Entrepreneurs issue. Warrior doesn’t look a day over 30, but I’m not revealing her age. The point is there are black business people out there to highlight in such a way.

Maybe DBJ is holding out some of their good young candidates for the Minority Business Leader Awards. I can’t tell you, I’m just reporting what I saw when I clicked on the award winners.

According to the Dallas Biz Journal Website, they are already looking for solicitations for next year’s list. Here’s the call as it appears on the site:

In 2010, the Dallas Business Journal will once again seek highly accomplished executives and entrepreneurs under the age of 40 for our 40 Under Forty Awards program.

To qualify, candidates must be 39 years old or younger as of June 30, 2010, and have a proven track record in both business and community involvement.

We are looking for executives who really shine — innovators, dealmakers, influential leaders who excel in their respective companies and industries, and show dynamic leadership in their communities.

Apparently there were no Black innovators, no Black dealmakers, no Black executives that “really shine” and are under 40. Or maybe there were no black folks nominated. I know of at least one person who was, but I guess they didn’t make the cut.

Am I offended by the Dallas Biz list? Not really. But it further illustrates the need for places like Dallas South that helps folks see the overlooked portions of our community.

And it illustrates what’s being lost in the dire state of Black media outlets like Ebony and Jet. So stop emailing me about how I’m racist for having a site dedicated to the positive portrayal of African-Americans.

Anyway, look for a list from Dallas South that will highlight the under 40 business scene. If you have anyone you would like to nominate, comment on this post and we will consider them.

DALLAS BUSINESS JOURNAL 40 UNDER 40

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