AUTO TRENDS AFRICAN AMERICAN AUTO DEALERS AND LEXUS’S COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

TMNA's dedication to diversity extends to its dealer network Through TDIG and the Toyota Avenues for Advancement Program (TAAP), the company supports minority-owned dealerships, identifying potential candidates through partnerships with organizations like the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealer (NAMAD) TDIG provides capital, operational support, and management assistance to qualified dealerships, including minority-owned ones. These initiatives foster entrepreneurship and empower African American dealers, addressing historical inequalities and barriers.

By Sharon S. Gordon

Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) has been at the forefront of empowering African Americans in the automotive industry and fostering economic equality. In celebration of Juneteenth, let's explore how TMNA, in collaboration with organizations like the Toyota Lexus Minority Owners Dealership Association (TLMODA) and Toyota Dealer Investment Group (TDIG), has created opportunities and resources for dealer ownership, paving the way for financial independence embraces diversity, equality, and economic empowerment for African Americans As Damon Lester, president of the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers, aptly puts it, "The role that black dealers play today is as pillars of the community "

TMNA is committed to cultivating an environment where diversity and inclusion thrive, supporting team members at all levels and fostering success Recognizing the importance of representation, TMNA ensures diversity is reflected across the organization, enabling team members to hold decision-making roles and contribute to the company's growth The automotive industry presented a new path to socioeconomic mobility for African Americans during the Great Migration

Leaving behind segregation and limited prospects, African Americans sought job opportunities in the expanding industrial economies of the North, Midwest, and West. Working in auto plants was a step forward, but African American workers aspired to hold larger, decision-making roles within the industry.

TMNA addresses this aspiration by empowering team members and promoting diversity within its leadership positions. Wilburt James, former president at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, was committed to diversity and inclusion, understanding the importance of having diverse voices in crucial discussions and decision-making processes

African American dealerships play a vital role in their communities, investing and supporting local economies. They create a positive economic impact, allowing cash to circulate within the community, and serving as pillars of support By investing in these communities, African American dealerships continue the legacy of the Great Migration workers and contribute to the growth and prosperity of their neighborhoods

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