It is the second week in February, and we continue to honor, reminisce, and educate ourselves in the observance of Black History Month. As a Union, we recognize the strength in our unity. Having equality in the workplace is of high importance for our organization, and we strongly encourage many outside our workplace to adopt and instill the same beliefs.
Unions support businesses but, more importantly, are the foundation of the working people. One of the best ways to show our support every day, but especially this month, is by buying and supporting Black-Owned Businesses. Contributing to the success of Black businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs, we give back to communities, important causes, and jobs.
The following is a list intended to highlight Black-Owned businesses when either shopping online or Dining while on the road.
If you are looking to shop from major retailers who are committed to diversifying their shelves, visit Fifteen Percent Pledge. The Fifteen Percent Pledge is a non-profit advocacy organization that partners with retailers to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned brands. The pledge has partnered with over 28 major companies, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, West Elm, and Old Navy.
While many of us who travel love to find local beverages and restaurants, Ashlee Tuck, a writer for Will Drink For Travel, lays out her recommendations for visiting and supporting black-owned businesses while traveling or even purchasing while at home. Drink for Travel has an interactive map where you can find black-owned spirits sold in your local store or filtering by your favorite spirit; you can see what’s available online for purchase. One of Ashlee’s latest updated articles has a list of 160+ Black-owned Brands to support. Cheers!
IYA Foods’ mission is to share love with everyone by providing access to nourishing & delicious foods. Toyin Kolawole, the Founder and CEO, stands by her mission through her passion for easy-to-use, nutrient-rich, and tasty African superfoods. IYA Foods are plant-based, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from preservatives. IYA foods can be found on Amazon, iyafoods.com, or at one of the 1,300 Walmart stores.
These are just a few of so many outstanding Black-Owned businesses we can and should support. We encourage you to find more and use your purchases in a way that will give back to a bigger purpose and promote unity, equality, and success.