Page 24 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2024

COAST NOTE
Although August is a specific time to recognize black-owned businesses, Lexi Williams feels the emphasis should be year- round.
“This acknowledgment should not be confined to just one month,” said Williams, owner and founder of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Black Owned Business Network. “Black business owners bring value and excellence every day of the year,” she added. “Consistent support and recognition can lead to lasting change, helping to dismantle the inequities that have long hindered our progress.”
The visionary and CEO of Aloha Glamour in Gulfport, Williams says supporting black businesses can have a positive ripple effect throughout the community. “It strengthens our local economies, creates jobs, and empowers our communities,” she said. “By recognizing and supporting black entrepreneurs, we are investing in a brighter, more diverse future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
Williams, who is also the reigning Ms. Black Mississippi Gulf Coast, added recognizing black business owners in August and throughout the year is a vital step toward building a more inclusive and equitable society. She offered patrons a few meaningful steps to support black-owned businesses:
Make a conscious effort to seek out and shop at black-owned businesses. This could be for everyday items, gifts, or special occasions.
Share your positive experiences with black-owned businesses on
story by Cherie Ward
Black Business Month is a celebration to support,
acknowledge, and appreciate black-owned businesses and all they represent in the country’s continual striving for inclusion, diversity, and equality.
social media, through word-of-mouth, and by leaving positive reviews online. This helps increase their visibility and attract more customers.
Offer constructive feedback to help businesses improve and grow. Your insights can be invaluable in helping them enhance their offerings and services.
Follow black-owned businesses on social media and engage with their content. Liking, commenting, and sharing their posts can help them reach a wider audience.
Participate in events, pop-ups, and markets that feature black- owned businesses. Your attendance and support at these events can make a significant impact.
Consider investing in black-owned businesses or forming partnerships. Financial support and collaboration can provide critical resources for growth and sustainability.
Learn about the history and challenges faced by black entrepreneurs. Understanding their journey can deepen your appreciation and commitment to supporting their businesses. Use your voice to advocate for policies and initiatives that support black-owned businesses. This includes promoting equal opportunities, access to capital, and fair treatment in the marketplace.
By taking these actions, patrons can make a significant difference in the success and longevity of black-owned businesses, contributing to a more diverse and equitable economy, she added.
24 | August 2024 www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living