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MODERN SLAVERY AND HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITMENT STATEMENT

At BlackForge, we believe in doing business the right way — with integrity, transparency, and an unwavering respect for human dignity. We are committed to ethical practices that protect individuals from forced labor, human trafficking, child labor, and any form of exploitation within our operations and throughout our supplier relationships.

 

Our Position

Modern slavery has no place in the world, and certainly none in our business. As a design and strategy company that values people as much as outcomes, we stand firmly behind the principles set forth by international human rights frameworks, including the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

 

We hold ourselves — and those we partner with — accountable to fair, safe, and humane working conditions.

 

Our Supply Chain and Partners

BlackForge does not operate manufacturing facilities. We partner with carefully vetted vendors and contractors for print, production, and fabrication services. While our scale differs from global manufacturers, we still take our responsibility seriously. Every vendor must uphold high standards that reflect our values around:

  • Voluntary employment

  • No child labor

  • Fair wages and working hours

  • Safe working environments

  • Transparent hiring and employment practices

 

We reserve the right to terminate any partnership if we learn of human rights violations or noncompliance with these principles.

 

Governance & Oversight

Joseph P. Shephard III, Owner and Principal at BlackForge, is directly responsible for upholding these commitments. Our internal reviews and vendor onboarding processes include checks for any potential risks related to labor exploitation or unethical practices.

 

We are working to integrate a formal due diligence protocol into all major vendor engagements starting FY25.

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Risk Awareness and Mitigation

While we do not directly operate within high-risk regions or industries, we recognize that no supply chain is entirely without risk. Our approach includes:

  • Partnering with suppliers who publish their own human rights and anti-slavery commitments

  • Periodic review of supply chain transparency tools and third-party certifications

  • Building long-term relationships with vendors we trust and who are committed to ethical labor standards

 

Ongoing Education & Responsibility

We're committed to continuous learning and improvement. As we grow, we plan to expand our supplier onboarding protocols and training to include more robust ethical sourcing education.

 

Reporting & Grievance

If you suspect any unethical practices connected to BlackForge, we want to know. We maintain an open-door reporting policy and will treat any concerns seriously, confidentially, and with urgency.

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