There's so much going on in the world right now, and one of the most important and interesting conversations around the #blacklivesmatter uprising also speaks to the pandemic question of "where does this come from and who made this?" Around the world we have been staying home and seeing our diverse local and global communities for all they truly have to offer - be that farm fresh vegetables from down the road or international creators and service providers whom we might not have ever discovered before.
Now, and forever, consider these questions with equality, sustainability, ethics and human rights in mind. We all vote with our spending, and can choose to support black business wherever possible, be that local startups, Instagram entrepreneurs, big companies and every enterprise in between. Here are 9 black-owned home decor brands to consider, plus a number of ways you can show your support for businesses just like these:
"If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality."
- Archbishop Desmond Tutu, 1984
This is How You Can Show Support for Black Business
Locate local black owned businesses and pay them a visit at your next opportunity
Don't expect or demand a discount
Leave thoughtful positive reviews on black owned businesses you've visited or bought from (even previously)
Use apps (such as Black Owned Businesses and Around the Way) to locate black run businesses nearby to you and encourage others to use it too
Tip generously and compliment meaningfully
Recognise that having black endorsements is not the same as being black owned
Recommend a black owned business or refer a black entrepreneur when given the opportunity
Host your next event at a black owned business
Support black arts and see an exhibition, play, poetry jam, comedy act or band locally and on your travels
Spread the word about your positive experiences from black owned business on social media
Share useful resources like films, books, links, bloggers to follow, and black brand to support on social media
Shop online and support black owned businesses all around the world
Visit black historical landmarks and tour businesses when you travel and where appropriate to do so
Next time you go to buy something, eat, stay, or play - ask yourself - "who am I supporting here?"
I am listening and learning and pledging to do better too.
With so much love,
x
