FJUMP TO THE PACK PICKS!

The beginning of February means ringing in Black History Month (BHM) in North America and Germany while other countries like the UK and Brazil honor similarly in the autumn months, so chances are you’ve heard of one of these observances. What you may not have heard are different reasons why they are, in fact, celebrated and held in reverence by so many in various ways. 

The Importance of Recognizing BHM

BHM honors the lives, struggles, hardships, perseverance, contributions and accomplishments of Black individuals specifically in US History and promotes their stories. 

In the words of President Gerald Ford, who officially recognized Black History Month in 1976 (changing from a commemorative week established by Dr. Carter Woodrow in 1926), it is important for Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

But that’s not all, and definitely not even most of why it is important. Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies sought out staff, students, and alumni for what the celebration of BHM means to them. Their responses are telling, elegant, genuine and deep, deserving to be heard. Here are a select few:

It’s a reminder that the level of reverence shown during this month is something that needs to be consistent the entire year. It’s a call to action to continue to advocate for and uplift those within society who are often pushed to the margins.

– Kayden Molock, M.S. in Sports Management

It is a time [to] shed light on shaded truths (and lies) of the past and acknowledge those who blazed trails we may not see in textbooks, or hear in lecture halls[…].

– Clement Gibson, M.S. in Strategic Communication

To me, Black History Month is a celebration of how far I’ve come in disappearing the shame around my identity, a season to honor our ancestors and their hidden contributions, and a time of reflection on the work still to be done.

– Annette Parkins, M.A. in Social-Organizational Psychology

A Thriving, Progressive Tradition

Celebrating BHM is about the shared lived experience of every single African American, and how they have shaped, influenced, challenged, and improved America and fought for the betterment of their lives and the lives of individuals in any other marginalized group.

The Association for the Study of African-American Life and History (ASALH), established in 1915, has been at the forefront of keeping this movement alive and meaningful. Each year, the ASALH elects a theme of focus. For 2023, the theme is Black Resistance: or, ASALH’s “call to everyone […] to study the history of Black Americans’ responses to establish safe spaces, where Black life can be sustained, fortified, and respected.”

This cause can be furthered by supporting Black-owned businesses. Curious how? We gotchu. Keep reading!

Why Supporting Black-Owned Businesses is Important

To break it down: Black entrepreneurs continue to be unjustly required to fight uphill battles that others seem to coast over, and there are receipts to prove it.

Fast fact: the National Bureau of Economic Research published a paper in late 2020 that the then-current average level of startup capital for Black enterprisers was less than a third compared to their Caucasian counterparts. 

A few factors including a racial wage gap (harder to save up), difficulty receiving small-business relief loans during the pandemic through official programs (Paycheck Protection Program), and brushing up against racism and bias are some common barriers that contribute to this discrepancy.

So, my takeaway? Supporting Black businesses is an active way to support social and racial equity. The team and I had a chat and thus decided that in that vein, we want to share some of the hand-picked businesses that have shaped our purchasing choices through their excellence and keep us coming back for more.

Pack Picks: Our Go-To Black-Owned Businesses

As a B2B digital marketing company, we like to be aware of the best establishments, sure–but we also are conscientious individuals and discerning shoppers. I asked the pack what their favorite companies are, and they howled in delight to share these top choices:

Beauty & Fashion

• Ace Beauté – Lashes & cosmetics
• Ami Colě – Skin care & beauty for melanin-rich skin
• D’iaynu – African clothing & accessories

By Women, for Women

• Femly – Natural feminine care
• The Honey Pot – Plant-Based feminine care systems & supplements (+ podcast!)

Finance Education & Assistance

• The Well Work – Funding for Black women, by Black women with the mission to remove access barriers within their community
  • ? Pack Point of Pride: FMDM’s very own Sr. Digital Strategist Nik Stephney is CXO and Co-Founder of this financial enterprise. ?

Food & Drinks – Local Haunts

• Big Lee’s BBQ – Food truck: Ocala, FL
• Harlem Brew South – Brewery: Rocky Mount, NC
• Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee & Books – Coffee Shop: Philadelphia, PA
• Skillet 2 Plate Soul Bistro – Restaurant: York, PA

Local Non-Profits – York, PA

• Blossom Youth – Focused on empowering youth through education, athletics, art, mentorship & leadership
• Young Thinkers of York  – A robotics & engineering program for underserved students

Multi-Media & Event Production

• Beyond 8 – International experience developer of high-level events, with a focus on promoting multicultural inclusivity

Self-Care & Wellness

• Golde – Superfoods & beverages, skin care for every body
• Black Girl Sunscreen – Sun protection for Black skin types

Hungry for More? So are We!

Although the above are our go-tos, there are so many other opportunities out there to shop from classy Blackstablishments. (Can I say that?) Check out this extensive list of 82 Black-owned Businesses you can support today!

What are some of your own Black-owned must-buy-froms? Share with us, we’d love to expand our options. ?️

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