Happy Small Business Week
Dear Black Women Entrepreneurs,
In a world where the odds are often stacked against you, your unwavering resilience, boundless creativity, and fierce determination continue to inspire and transform our communities. This Small Business Week, we want to take a moment to express our deepest appreciation for the extraordinary contributions you make every single day.
You are the trailblazers, the innovators, and the visionaries who dare to dream big and make those dreams a reality. Your journey has been one of immense challenges, from systemic barriers to gender discrimination, yet you have consistently defied expectations and shattered glass ceilings. Your strength and tenacity serve as a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of Black women.
Throughout history, you have been the backbone of our communities, creating businesses that not only cater to underserved markets but also serve as platforms for activism and empowerment. From the rise of Black women-owned businesses in the 1960s and 70s to the groundbreaking initiatives of today, your impact knows no bounds.
We are in awe of the innovative business models you pioneer, like Jasmin Brand’s HER Texas. This statewide women entrepreneur pipeline champions collective investment and advocacy for more direct spending with woman-owned businesses. Your commitment to creating networks and mentorship programs that support the growth of other minority-owned businesses is a shining example of your dedication to uplifting others.
Your contributions to economic growth through job creation and community development cannot be overstated. You are the driving force behind thriving local economies, and your success has a ripple effect that touches countless lives.
As we celebrate your achievements, we are reminded of the wise words of Cheryl Polote Williamson: “Never live so deeply within someone else’s dream that you never fulfill your own.” You embody this sentiment, fearlessly pursuing your passions and carving out your own paths to success.
While progress has been made in recent years, with initiatives and organizations emerging to support and highlight your work, we recognize that there is still much work to be done. We must continue to address the disparities in funding, resources, and support that persist, and we must do so with urgency and resolve.
On this Small Business Week, we call upon everyone to join us in supporting Black women-owned businesses today and every day. Let us celebrate their incredible achievements, amplify their stories, and invest in their success.
To every Black woman entrepreneur reading this, know that you are seen, you are valued, and you are making an indelible mark on our world. Your strength, your resilience, and your unwavering commitment to excellence inspire us all. Keep dreaming, keep creating, and keep breaking barriers. We are here to support you every step of the way.
With deepest admiration and gratitude,
Chanelle Yarber
BrightGirl Media