Question of the Week
Our national conversation about race has reached an inflection point, as peaceful protests continue in all 50 states and cities large and small. People who may never have considered topics like police brutality, incarceration and deep-seated inequality are talking about it more than ever. They’re joining the masses of people who have born direct, personal witness to these inequalities in advocating for change, both through protests and via social media. Businesses have noticed. Many of them are supporting Black Lives Matter publicly for the first time ever.
In her recent town hall, Oprah Winfrey said that in 35 years on television talking about racism, she doesn’t recall a moment quite like this one. She believes this is a true tipping point that will lead to true and lasting change.
Many of us are looking for ways to support and uplift the black community now and going forward. As Forbes recently pointed out, “voting with your pocketbook is one of the best ways to effect change in a capitalist society.” To that end, in honor of this tipping point and in celebration of Pride Month, which was started with the help of a black, trans woman, I want to highlight 12 Black-Owned, LGTBQ Entrepreneurs who we can celebrate, support and uplift.
As a black, LGBTQ entrepreneur myself, nothing excites me more than seeing powerful examples of people who look like me doing amazing things, beating the odds against black and queer success in America. So, I’m not only sharing stories about these entrepreneurs but also asking them to talk about their experiences, strength and hopes on specific topics:
- What has been your biggest challenge being an entrepreneur?
- What would you tell your younger self?
- What are you most proud of?
If you’re looking to support black and queer communities, you can directly support them as well as share their stories with others.
Quote of the Week
“Resistance is NOT a one lane highway. Maybe your lane is protesting, maybe your lane is organizing, maybe your lane is counseling, maybe your lane is art activism, maybe your lane is surviving the day. Do NOT feel guilty for not occupying every lane. We need all of them.” – Lindsay Young
Task of the Week
A lot of us are wondering “what can I do to help?” Take some time this weekend to figure out your lane. What talents do you have that can make someone’s life easier? How can you educate yourself to enhance your reach and effectiveness? How can you support people in need?
I’d love to hear what you come up with. Contact me at the links below.