Organizers said hundreds of people came out to spend their money and support Black businesses on Saturday.
Spend in the Black is a nationwide and local initiative. Chicago’s event, which took place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., included stores along 75th Street and pop-ups.
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The event was on its second year. It included established businesses and also new faces.
Despite a rainy start, Niara Powell, owner of small business Root and Remedy, was already on her fourth plant sale when ABC7 caught up with her.
“I love to be with my people,” Powell said. “As a small business owner, it allows me to pour back not only into my business, but also the community.”
The event was led by Progressive Baptist Church and Salem Baptist Church in collaboration with 6th Ward Ald. William Hall.
Back in the day, the 75th Street corridor used to be bustling with business. The goal of the event is to revitalize Black businesses and bring the community together, something that established and new businesses are looking forward to.
Last year’s event brought in more than $1 million.
“I heard last year was a great success and I wanted to come out this year and participate,” Nzuri Kulture owner Katrina Thacker said. “It’s great to have the support that we need. We’re all working together for a greater cause, and also bring more revenue for smaller businesses that may not actually have a storefront or location available.”
Local elected leaders were also in attendance, as the city looks to continue to support Black-owned businesses. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle were there for opening remarks.
“For far too long, Black communities have been left out of the conversation and overlooked when it comes to investment,” Mayor Johnson said. “The 75th street corridor has long been a corridor of talent, vision and the community spirit that is alive today, so what’s really needed in this moment is not just our dollars. It’s the intentionality of our dollars.”
