What is Black History Month?

Black History Month is annual time to honor the achievements and history of Black people while acknowledging the progress toward equality. As a result, this is the perfect time to demonstrate Port Houston’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while allowing teams to connect and learn from one another.

Black History Month has been officially recognized by the governments of the United States and Canada for the month of February each year. Additionally, Black History Month has been observed and recognized in October for people in Netherlands, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.¹

How Did Black History Month Get Started?

Before there was ever a Black History Month, there was “Negro History Week” which started in 1926, and held during the second week of February. This week was declared by historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. Celebrating Negro History Week in February was a nod to both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both born during the same week and great contributors to African American History. Negro History Week became more popular during the following decades sparking the push for Black History Month.²

In 1968, members of the Black United Students at Kent State University participated in sit-ins and protested disorderly conduct charges during Negro History Week. The following year students demanded Kent State University to extend the week into a month-long celebration. This act transformed Black History Month at the university and had ripple effects across the nation.³

In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”³

Celebrating Black Leaders at Port Houston

Curtis Duncan serves as Controller at Port Houston, and he does an excellent job of leading our teams in Payroll, Accounts Payable, Credit, Customer Billing Services and Financial Accounting.

Curtis was born in Detroit, Michigan and graduated from Northwestern University. Before entering the thrilling world of Finance, Curtis was drafted by the Houston Oilers as a wide receiver in 1987. We are thankful that Curtis’s journey brought him to Port Houston in 2013.

“Diversity in the workforce, and especially diversity in leadership, is important because excellent companies should reflect and appreciate people from the wide variety of ethnicities, races, religions, and experiences that make our country great. As a Black man in leadership, I always strive for excellence because I am mindful of the path that I am paving for others who will follow or join me in similar positions of leadership,” states Curtis Duncan, Port Houston Controller.

Jennifer Aksoy is our Customer Service Manager for Bayport and Barbours Cut Container Terminals. She supervises a team of Logistics and Customer Service Coordinators making sure trucks are efficiently moving through our gates. She is in a key position to lead and support a team working in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.

Originally from Portland, Oregon, Jennifer journeyed from California to join our Vessel Services team in 2012. She took on the position of Gate Manager in 2013, and in September 2022 she was promoted to her current position.

“Diverse representation in leadership allows for a wide range of important perspectives. Having a leadership role not only empowers my peers but also empowers other black professionals to be seen, valued, and heard at their organization,” states Jennifer Aksoy, Customer Service Manager of Port Houston Container Terminals.

Kerrick Henny is our Chief Government & Public Relations Officer. He is proud to carry on a family legacy of hard work instilled by his father, who worked two full-time jobs connected to the Houston Ship Channel (at ARMCO Steel and ILA Local 1351) for over 36 years.

A true port native, Kerrick grew up just two miles from the Houston Ship Channel in Galena Park. Before he found his way back to the port, his career would include joining the executive team at AT&T, working as a key player in early policy decisions around “big data,” and meeting five U.S. presidents!

“I’m so glad that the state and many companies are recognizing the importance of a diverse workforce. As a Black man in leadership, I’m very committed to being a servant leader, focused on the growth and well-being of our people and the communities to which we operate in. My focus as a leader is to always keep my team informed and help in their development so they can perform as highly as possible,” states Kerrick Henny, Port Houston Chief Government & Public Relations Officer.

Johnnie Gillyard serves as a Sergeant in our Police Department. She oversees the day shift personnel, which consists of nine officers between three terminals. She has taken on multiple roles for the department, including being a Certified Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D) Instructor, a Centurion Control Stick Instructor, a BolaWrap Instructor, and a member of the departmental TCOLE Training Advisory Board Committee.

Sergeant Gillyard is a native of Houston Texas with three decades of law enforcement experience. She joined Port Houston in November of 1992, and in September of 1994, she became the first Black woman to be promoted to Sergeant within Port Houston PD.

“I'm always working on gaining the trust of the community (tenants, ILA workers, visitors, etc.). Your ability to communicate clearly can help you earn the trust of the community in which you serve as a law enforcement officer. Interpersonal communication skills are important because they allow officers to develop a good rapport with the community, with fellow officers and those from diverse cultures, ” states Johnnie Gillyard, Port Houston Police Sergeant.

Resources

¹ Grant, Ph.D., B., & McGee, M.Ed., V. (2023, February 2). 10 facts about Black History Month: BestColleges. BestColleges.com. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/black-history-month-facts/  

² History.com Editors, (2009, October 27). Black history facts – black history month & little known facts – history. History.com. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-facts 

³ History.com Editors (2010, January 14). Black history Month 2023: Facts, origins & more | history – history. History.com. Retrieved February 13, 2023, from https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month 

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Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The day of September 15th is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively.

Hispanic Heritage Month is important at Port Houston because it honors the achievements and contributions of Hispanic American champions, who have inspired others to achieve success. We recognize that Hispanic/Latinx people make up a significant portion of our region’s population, enriching the culture of the greater Houston area with traditions, diverse origins and unique perspectives. We celebrate the innumerable contributions of Hispanic/Latinx leaders, authors, artists, politicians, doctors, activists, mothers, fathers and more, this month and beyond.

Understanding Hispanic/Latinx Identity

Although the national recognition of “Hispanic Heritage Month” does not specifically include related terms like “Latino” or “Mexican,” understanding the multifaceted nature of these identities is important. These terms refer to ethnicity, origin, and identity, based on shared culture rather than skin color or other physical features.

1. Hispanic: Typically refers to a citizen or descendent of Spain or a Spanish-speaking country. This is primarily a reference to the shared language of Spanish, so country of origin can vary. A person from Mexico and a person from Chile may both refer to themselves as Hispanic.
2. Latino/Latina/Latinx: Typically refers to a citizen or descendant of Latin America, including South America, Central America and some parts of the Caribbean. As illustrated in the graphic above, there is overlap between Hispanic and Latinx identities, because the language and geography overlap. It is also worth noting that “Latino” and “Latina” are gendered terms for male and female, respectively, while “Latinx” is used as a gender-neutral term.
3. You may also encounter the term “Chicano,” which is sometimes used to refer to someone born in the United States to Mexican parents or grandparents. “Mexican” can also refer to a descendent or citizen of Mexico, just like “Guatemalan” would refer to a descendent or citizen of Guatemala.

If you are ever unsure what term to use, it’s best to ask the person what their preference is. This can help you avoid an awkward moment and give you a chance to learn about another person’s heritage!

Regional & Historical Fun Facts

• Greater Houston is home to one of the nation’s largest Hispanic populations, numbering more than 2.3 million people (38%) throughout the region.
• Latinos comprise 35% of the Houston metro-area labor force, holding 62% of jobs in construction, extraction and maintenance, 47% in service, and 45% in production and transportation.
• Mexican-American residents of Magnolia Park worked on dredging the Houston Ship Channel in the early 1910’s. The important role Mexican Americans played in deepening the Channel allowed larger cargo ships to enter the port.
• Hispanic/Latinx employees make up 27% of Port Houston’s workforce currently.

How to Honor Hispanic Heritage Month

…With your mind:Read more about why we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and Hispanic/Latinx influences in American culture: National Hispanic American Heritage Month 2021 (hispanicheritagemonth.gov)

Hispanic Heritage Month: 8 Latinos Who Influenced American Life – NBC4 Washington (nbcwashington.com)
12 Ways Hispanic Culture Is Changing America (spanish.academy)

…With your time: There are TONS of events happening around Houston in honor of HHM, from festivals and interactive art to concerts and pop-up markets. Check out this list to find one in your neck of the woods:
2022 Houston Guide to Hispanic Heritage Month Events | 365 Houston (365thingsinhouston.com)

…With your food: There is no question that Hispanic/Latinx culture has a major influence on our region’s cuisine. Check out this list to find a new favorite eatery close to work or home:
Our Guide to Latin American Eats in Houston (visithoustontexas.com)

“In the end, the American dream is not a sprint, or even a marathon, but a relay. Our families don’t always cross the finish line in the span of one generation. But each generation passes on to the next the fruits of their labor.”
– Julian Castro, Former United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

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Port Houston employees have made everything possible this year even as the supply chain continues to see record high demand. Port Houston knows the value of its people and continues to make investments into their futures with training, succession planning, organizational development and more. In this blog, we highlight some of longest tenured employees to see how they have progressed in their careers and why they enjoy working at Port Houston.

YOLANDA “NESSIE” RAMIREZ-FRANCIS – FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANT

Nessie Ramirez-Francis is celebrating her 44th work anniversary at Port Houston in August 2022. She began her career at Port Houston in August 1978 as a Manifest Clerk before moving to and helping start the Accounting department. She has spent most of her tenure in the Accounting department helping with financial analysis, financial planning, accounts payable, special projects and more. In her current role, she is responsible for collecting, tracking, and reporting finances for the Executive Division and Financial Division.

During her time at the port, Nessie has witnessed many changes in business and technology. She has helped with the installment of three different financial softwares and even witnessed the first desktop computers being installed at the port. What keeps her going is the awesome people she works with everyday.  

TOM HEIDT – CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Tom Heidt celebrated 40 years at Port Houston in early 2022. He began his career at Port Houston on January 13, 1982 and it’s safe to say he’s done a little bit of everything. Heidt spent his first 11 years at Port Houston crunching numbers in the Accounting department.

Eventually, Heidt transferred to the Trade Development Division, now known as the Commercial Division, where he spent more than 12 years as Market Research Manager and Market Development Manager followed by four years overseeing the container terminal development in the Operations Division.

After more than 20 years at Port Houston, Heidt’s career led him to the Chief Financial Officer position, which he held for six years. Currently, he serves as the Chief Operating Officer, and the divisions he oversees include Commercial, Port Operations, Infrastructure, Safety, Security, Environmental, IT, and Finance.

“My main purpose over the past 40 years has always been to try and make Port Houston a better place,” Heidt said. “And my number one goal is to try and pass my knowledge on, as I want Port Houston to be even more successful in the next 40 years.”

CAROLYN ASHLEY – DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT & ENGAGEMENT

Carolyn Ashley is coming up on her 41st work anniversary at Port Houston in August 2022. She began her career as a secretary at Port Houston on August 12, 1981 shortly after moving to Houston. Her hard work and devotion to the company speaks for itself as she was promoted to World Trade Center Supervisor in 1986 where she served for five years.

Ashley has worn plenty of hats during her time at Port Houston. Some of her other titles include Real Estate Coordinator, Manager of Office Services, Employee Relations Manager, Training and Development Manager, Senior Manager of Learning and Organizational Development and Talent/Organizational Development Senior Business Partner.

After recognizing her true passion was the development of Port Houston employees in 2014, Ashley moved into the role of Manager of Organizational Training and Development. In November 2019 she was promoted to Director of Employee Development and Engagement where she currently serves.

“I had a one-year plan that worked out to be 40 one-year plans so far,” Ashley said. “Working at Port Houston has been challenging but rewarding. I wouldn’t want to have spent my career anywhere else.”

KENT STILLWELL – PORT POLICE OFFICER

Kent Stillwell celebrated 40 years at Port Houston in March 2022. Officer Stillwell started working at the Port in January of 1982, but his journey in Public Service began in 1979, when he first served as a Texas Commissioned Security Officer after graduating from the University of Houston-Downtown Law Enforcement Academy (Class # 72). When he joined Port Houston, Officer Stillwell earned several awards, including the Port Houston Police Department Life Saving Award, the Safe Driver Award and Officer of the Quarter. He played a key role in moving the department forward in using technology for Police and Dispatch services, when they received new computers to replace older surplus equipment.

Officer Stillwell retired in March 2022 and is enjoying using his time to practice hobbies like photography, astronomy, reading and music.

DOUG MIMS – SENIOR CAPTAIN OF THE M/V SAM HOUSTON

Doug Mims celebrated 35 years at Port Houston in May 2022. His career at Port Houston began in the Fire Department in 1987. He was promoted to Pilot on the M/V Sam Houston tour boat and has been a key leader on this team ever since. As Senior Captain of the Sam Houston crew, Doug leads his team in providing free tours to the public. The past few years have been unique with the boat tour closed during the pandemic, but Doug has continued to support the growth of his crew as they prepare to lead tours without him in the future.

Although Doug is retiring this year, he will be missed at the Sam Houston boat tour pavilion. In retirement, Doug plans to do a lot of surfing, building computers for gaming, watching zombie movies and spending time with family.

PATRICIA RAMSEY – PSEO PROGRAM MANAGER

Patricia Ramsey celebrated 18 years at Port Houston in May 2022. Trish started at Port Houston in 2004 as a secretary in the Planning & Environment Department but moved to PSEO division shortly thereafter. She has served as a “super admin” since joining the PSEO group, taking on increasing levels of responsibility over the years. Patricia has led the ISO 28000 (Supply Chain Security) Program from its inception at Port Houston and is still asked to speak globally on the topic. She is also certified as a PMP (Project Management Professional) and has used this expertise to assist several departments with project management. In 2020, Patricia was redesignated as PSEO Program Manager, overseeing all budgeting, projects, and contracts for the division.

Patricia retired in May 2022 and plans to build a house in Canada, which will serve as her summer home.

OTHER PORT HOUSTON RETIREES IN 2021 & 2022

• Donald W. Miller – 1st Class Electrician – 44 years
• Robert D. Waller – Foreman RTG Wharf Electrical – 43 years
• Kathleen M. Swift – Customer Billing Services Analyst – 41 years
• Randall K. Pugh – Tradesman II – 39 years
• Rudolph J. Lechuga – RTG Wharf Mechanic – 34 years
• Maria A. Lewis-Miller – Inventory Specialist – 32 years
• Douglas E. Johnson – 1st Class RTG Wharf Mechanic – 31 years
• Edward W. Fouts – RTG Wharf Mechanic – 29 years
• Charles B. McCary – Police Sergeant – 28 years
• Carol A. Neidert – Logistics Lead Yard Planner – 26 years
• Eric P. LeBeaux – Tradesman IV – 26 years
• Jeffrey B. Best – Tradesman IV – 26 years 
• Diana K. Robbins – Gate Operations Supervisor – 25 years
• Jerry L. Matheson – 1st Class RTG Wharf Mechanic – 25 years
• Kevin T. Keena – Equipment Shop Mechanic – 25 years
• Milton P. Mifflin – RTG Wharf Mechanic – 25 years
• Ricky C. Murray – Foreman RTG Wharf Electrical – 25 years

Although these are just some of the many port employee stories, the Port Houston team is grateful for all current and retired employees who have served diligently and evolved in their career with us. To learn more about careers at Port Houston, visit www.porthouston/careers-2/.

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Kerrick Henny, Chief Government & Public Relations Officer at Port Houston, states “Juneteenth marks a date of major significance in American history and represents the ways in which freedom for Black people have been delayed. It is a reminder that “nobody is free until everybody is free” It should be celebrated as the day when all Americans were liberated and created equal. It should be a day to reflect, to learn, and grow as a nation and as a people.”

Ric Campo, Chairman of the Port Commission of the Port Houston Authority, states “This holiday is not only important to Texans, but is important to all Americans…we are grateful for it becoming law and receiving the recognition it has long deserved.”

At Port Houston, we recently adopted Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as part of our core values. We recognize that as a leader of commerce and economic activity in the most diverse city in the U.S. we have a responsibility to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the region. Port Houston is commemorating Juneteenth by hosting a celebration recognizing the importance of this national holiday. The celebration intends to spread awareness of Juneteenth's history and highlight the significance it has in people’s lives.

History of Juneteenth

Juneteenth is the longest-running African American holiday and it commemorates June 19th, 1865; when General Gordon Granger led 2,000 Union troops to Galveston Bay announcing the 250,000 enslaved people of Texas to be free. This is two years following the emancipation proclamation. Which was signed by Abraham Lincoln on January 1st, 1863, declaring the enslavement of people in Confederate states to be illegal. However, after the Emancipation proclamation was made effective in 1863, not all Confederate territory was immediately freed. The Union army did not have enough strength in the westernmost Confederate states to enforce the newly declared proclamation. Texas being one of the last states to be financially dependent on slavery, it was not until two and a half years later that Texas was no longer financially dependent on slaves.

 “The two and half years it took for slaves in Texas to learn of their freedom shows us that freedom and equality for all people in this land are bedrock principles of the US Constitution. However, it also reminds us that change is not instant, and progress is earned by those who remain vigilant,” states Derek L. Garret, Project and Construction Manager at Port Houston.

Port Houston and Juneteenth

Juneteenth has always been an important part of U.S. history but has just recently received congressional recognition and acknowledgment for its role in shaping this nation. It also presents an opportunity to instill learning for generations to come. 

“Unlike Independence Day, Juneteenth is a day for celebration because it recognizes when all Americans were liberated, free, and created equal. It’s important to recognize its place in our history and reflect on the long struggle by many for equal rights and how far we have to go. In honor of this holiday, I encourage everyone to take the time to reflect and gain a better understanding of our past so that we can come together for a brighter future,” states Jessica Shaver, Chief People Officer at Port Houston.

Port Houston aims to move the world and drive regional prosperity. Through our mission, we are dedicated to support the communities we serve and begin by ensuring employees feel heard and represented in the initiatives the port champions. Through this workplace celebration, the port has an opportunity to bring awareness and create a space for conversation that further drives diversity and equity in the workplace.

Maria Aguirre, Director of Community Relations at Port Houston, states “To me, the port celebrating Juneteenth means that we can collectively heal from the wounds of the past and move towards a future where we are all excepted and included.”

 more Information:

To learn more about Juneteenth, and the various celebrations happening in Houston, visit:

TSHA | Juneteenth (tshaonline.org)

Juneteenth events: Where to celebrate in Houston, Galveston | khou.com

The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth | National Museum of African American History and Culture (si.edu)

Miller Outdoor Theatre | Wells Fargo Presents Juneteenth: The Journey To Freedom

https://epconservancy.org/

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Pride Month is important at Port Houston because it honors the historical and ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights, recognizes the humanity and validity of the LGBTQ+ community, and demonstrates the power and importance of being your authentic self. We recognize that Houston has the largest LGBTQ+ population of any city in the state of Texas, and it is essential for Port Houston to create an environment of acceptance for LGBTQ+ people in our workforce and community.

“Celebrating Pride Month is a way to honor those that have sacrificed so much, just to freely be themselves. It’s important to acknowledge PRIDE Month, here at Port Houston, because we want our LGBTQ+ to be celebrated, to feel included, and to feel at home. More importantly, we want to educate our workforce on some of the issues this community faces daily and hold our ourselves accountable to do the work and make a change,” states Ashley Cheatham, Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Port Houston.

“Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month is celebrated each year in the month of June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. The Stonewall Uprising was a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States… The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.” – Library of Congress

You can read the 2022 Presidential Declaration here

History, Symbols & Celebration of Pride

Stonewall Uprising of 1969

In June of 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn gay club in New York City, sparking violent clashes as bar patrons and onlookers fought back against law enforcement. On the first anniversary of the raid, to build on this spirit of resilience, thousands of people joined in a march from the Stonewall Inn to Central Park, in what is now recognized as the world’s first gay pride parade. This day of remembrance sparked annual observances and weeks-long celebrations in the following years. In 2000, President Bill Clinton declared June “Gay and Lesbian Pride Month”.

Rainbow Flag

In 1978, gay artist Gilbert Baker was encouraged to design a symbol of pride for the gay community by Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the U.S., Baker chose to design a flag because he saw flags as the most powerful symbol of pride. Inspired by the rainbow as a “natural flag” from the sky, Baker chose six colors for the stripes, each with its own meaning: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony and violet for spirit.

Pride in Houston

Houston is home to the fourth largest pride parade in the nation, with more than 200,000 participants in the annual event. This year, the 44th annual Houston Pride Celebration will take place in downtown Houston on Saturday, June 25th. Read more: https://pridehouston.org/

Progress Can’t be Contained…

In the spring of 2021, Maersk sent two rainbow-painted containers on a world tour to represent their commitment to inclusion and diversity. When one of these bold boxes made a stop at Port Houston, a handful of team members took a moment to sign their names inside, demonstrating their personal commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

This month, as we focus on inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community, it is important to recognize both the strides we have made as a nation and the miles still to go on the journey towards acceptance. Consider the following stats:

• 54% of LGBTQ+ Americans have hidden a personal relationship to avoid discrimination
• Only 46% of gay, lesbian and bisexual individuals are open about their sexual orientation with their family, and 43% of LGBTQ+ employees have not revealed their sexual orientation at work
• Other Quick Facts about Texas LGBTQ+ community

At Port Houston, as we continue our journey towards becoming America’s distribution hub for the next generation, we are committed to making the next generation kinder and more accepting than the last – striving to do what is right within our organization and throughout our community.

How to Honor Pride Month

Through education

Pride month is a perfect time to focus on educating ourselves. Take some time this month to read about the history, challenges and dynamics of the LGBTQ+ population in America. https://www.history.com/tag/lgbt-history https://www.americanprogress.org/article/state-lgbtq-community-2020/

Through allyship

You don’t have to identify as LGBTQ+ to support the movement. Like gender-based movements, having allies of all different backgrounds is important to progress and necessary to see change. Check out some basic tips and resources on how to be a good ally and friend to LGBTQ+ people. https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/relationships-love/a28159555/how-to-be-lgbtq-ally/

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Caption: Attendance at the Port Houston Business Equity Program Launch Event in July 2021. (From left to right) Harris County Commissioner Precinct #2 Adrian Garcia, Port Commissioner Cheryl Creuzot, Houston Minority Supplier Development Council President Ingrid Robinson, Port Houston Executive Director Roger Guenther, Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Dr. Laura Murillo, City of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Port Commissioner Wendy Montoya Cloonan, Harris County Commissioner Precinct #1 Rodney Ellis, SBA-Houston District Director Tim Jeffcoat.  

Business Equity Program Anniversary

Approximately one year ago, Port Houston created a new Business Equity program to create greater equity for minority and woman-owned business enterprises participating in its procurement and contracting processes. In 2022, Port Houston is continuing to focus on promoting opportunity for all by increasing collaboration with community and industry stakeholders. We are increasing the number of S/MWBE enrollments and participation to support our goal of developing and strengthening external partnerships.

Port Houston’s Business Equity Program is a valuable resource for S/MWBEs looking to grow and expand their business. We host several business networking events to help businesses network as well as learn from one another. Port Houston’s Interagency Mentor Protégé Program (IMPP) helps businesses foster long-term relationships between contractors, Port Houston certified S/MWBEs and other partnering agencies. There are also safety programs and industry-specific forums to pinpoint opportunities.

Below are some S/MWBEs enrolled in Port Houston’s Business Equity program who are making a difference in the greater Houston community.

Visual AV LLC is a Port Houston certified small, minority-owned technology company and graduate of the 2021 OpPORTunity U training program. Visual AV specializes in providing innovative technology solutions that help customers collaborate more effectively. Visual AV sells A/V and IT Equipment that can be used in various settings across multiple industries. Their large interactive displays allow the user to create digital lessons and activities that can be easily reused and shared.

Sweet Dreams Gourmet was established in 2013 by Danielle Green. It is a Port Houston registered minority, woman-owned small business and graduate of the 2021 OpPORTunity U training program. Sweet Dreams Gourmet specializes in dessert and light bites catering offering affordable services for all occasions from children’s birthday parties to large scale corporate events. They strive to promote fresh ideas and innovative trends in catering.

Founded in 2019 by Aril Mejia, Jr., Elite Construction and Engineering Services, LLC (ECES) is a firm specializing in civil engineering services. ECES is a Port Houston registered minority-owned, small business and currently enrolled in the 2022 OpPORTunity U training program. Their objective is to exceed expectations by providing high-quality services to clients delivering products on time and within budget.

The Port Houston Business Equity team has the knowledge, skills, and resources to help your small, minority- or woman-owned business succeed. We have multiple pathways for your business to obtain the necessary tools to compete for procurements and grow your business. See how your business can work with Port Houston today by enrolling at https://porthouston.com/business-equity-enrollment/.

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Maersk’s rainbow container made its way around the world to Port Houston’s Barbours Cut Container Terminal. This colorful container has served as a symbol of equity, inclusion and diversity where all employees, partners, and customers feel welcomed and can be themselves without judgment or fear.

The container not only serves as a symbol for Maersk, but also the entire maritime industry. The maritime industry has historically been a predominantly male world, but the industry is seeing more women and minorities entering the maritime workforce. According to the Diversity Study Group in London, employers are embracing the benefits of DEI data to support decision-making and respond to the growing importance of DEI issues.

As an international port in the most diverse city in the U.S., Port Houston has a duty to encourage and stimulate diversity, equity and inclusion in the maritime industry. In May of 2021, Port Houston formalized its commitment by officially adopting a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Position Statement. Additionally, DEI was formally established as a key priority for Port Houston with the adoption of the 2020 Strategic Plan providing direction for the entire organization.

Tom Heidt, Port Houston Chief Operating Officer, states that from his perspective, diversity can develop naturally as you strive for inclusion. He is challenging himself to intentionally bring more and different perspectives to the table, and he reminded everyone that we can all ask if we want to be included in something.

One of Port Houston’s strategic goals is to become “the best place to work.” Creating the right environment is a must to attract the specialized talent required by our multifaceted operations. A workplace culture that supports the success, psychological safety and professional confidence of every individual is the ultimate goal.

Kerrick Henny, Port Houston's Chief Government & Public Relations Officer, states that as a black man growing up two miles from the port, he recognizes that fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace is not only morally right but also great for our business. A culture of DEI means every employee is supported, accepted, respected and safe at work, which leads to greater morale and results.

Port Houston has a tremendous opportunity to be an agent of positive change in our region and beyond, and we are grabbing that opportunity.

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