Harnessing Our Power

In a time where economic uncertainty is at an all time high, and the political climate seems in a state of disarray, the black community seems even more lost. After the DEI were dropped from familiar household names and big box brands, millions voiced their disdain across social media almost falling into deeper despair about the present state of affairs.

 A viral video from Emmy-winning actress, author, and entrepreneur Tabitha Brown shed some light and some common sense back into the discussion, proclaiming that a nationwide boycott of the affected establishments would most certainly do more harm than good. She's right, in part that many of the smaller black-owned brands would stand to suffer from such a boycott. However, one thing was left out and our sister, and fitness entrepreneur, Keiara LaShae noted it best; what if we took this time to really and truly develop our own for us? Before many of the smaller black owned brands were accepted into the aforementioned big box stores, they started from the bottom, with their own ideas, images and identities selling from their individual web sites and growing a movement behind their products in their own right. 

What makes this so impossible now? With the rise of black owned business directories like "Shop the Hood", "Buy Black" and "Naspora" cataloging thousands of companies curating quality products for our communities, I wonder what really is there to stop us, besides ourselves. With $1.8 trillion in buying power at the end of 2024, we without a doubt have what it takes to create a change.

Supporting black owned brands is a way to empower the black community and address systemic inequalities. By choosing to spend your money at black owned businesses, you are contributing to the economic growth and success of these entrepreneurs. It's a way to show solidarity and create opportunities for underrepresented groups.

How are black owned brands uniting?

Black owned brands are coming together to form networks, collaborations, and partnerships that amplify their voices and reach. By joining forces, these businesses can pool their resources, share knowledge, and support each other in a competitive market. This unity not only strengthens individual brands but also creates a collective impact that is hard to ignore.

What is the impact of harnessing black buying power?

When black owned brands unite and harness their buying power, they are able to challenge the status quo, demand representation, and drive change. By supporting these businesses, consumers are not only investing in quality products and services but also in a more diverse and inclusive economy. The impact goes beyond the bottom line, it's about creating a more equitable society for all.

How can you support black owned brands?

There are many ways to support black owned brands, from shopping at their stores and online shops to sharing their products on social media and recommending them to friends and family. By being intentional with your purchasing decisions and choosing to support black owned businesses, you are contributing to a more inclusive and diverse marketplace.

Empowering black owned brands is a collective effort that requires the support and commitment of consumers, businesses, and communities. By uniting and harnessing black buying power, these brands are not only thriving but also paving the way for a more equitable and just future. Let's continue to support, uplift, and celebrate black owned businesses as they make a lasting impact on the world.

After all, supporting our own leads to more business, more business leads to not only buying power but hiring power as well, we when employ us, we no longer have to depend on someone else to do so.