The City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation received the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s 2024 Civil Rights Advocate and Partner Award for its Title VI program. This award recognizes Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) commitment to ensuring non-discrimination in public interactions and activities, including language access via the GLOBO language access system and employee “I Speak” pins; diverse contracting opportunity technical assistance through the ACDBE Academy, and 'Change Your Altitude' quarterly capacity-building series; and community outreach and inclusion informational sessions for our near neighbors, students, and the community. 
At PHL, Title VI responsibilities are led by the Office of Business Diversity and Accessibility, however, nearly all departments within PHL assist with the developing and implementing of Title VI strategies, along with stakeholders and partner city departments and the Federal Aviation Administration.
"I am truly honored to accept this award on behalf of our entire team. This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in all of our projects. Thank you to all who contributed for your commitment to making PHL more accessible and inclusive." said Denise Bailey, Department of Aviation Vice President of Business Diversity and Accessibility.
"Congratulations to Denise and her team on receiving this industry recognition and for creating meaningful programs at the airport that benefit our guests, our community and our employees and stakeholders," said Department of Aviation CEO Atif Saeed.
Title VI is a foundational section of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. According to the National Archives, on June 6, 1963, President John F. Kennedy delivered a national address urging the country to ensure equal treatment for all Americans regardless of race. Shortly after, Kennedy recommended that Congress pass civil rights legislation to address issues such as voting rights, public accommodations, school desegregation, and nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs. Despite Kennedy’s assassination in November 1963, his proposal led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. President Lyndon Johnson signed the act into law just hours after it was passed by Congress on July 2, 1964.
“Receiving the FAA’s Title VI award this year was especially meaningful for two reasons: 2024 is the first year that large-hub airports are required by the FAA to develop a formal Title VI program, and, importantly it marks the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,” said Bailey.
