Why Juneteenth 2024 Is The Best Time To Support Black-Owned Business

Juneteenth is a time celebrate the cultural contributions of the African American community

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Juneteenth, an annual commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States after the Civil War, has been celebrated by African Americans since the late 1800s. The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln on Jan. 1, 1863, declared freedom for enslaved people in Confederate states. But sadly, not everyone received the message. The historic day, also known as Emancipation Day, is celebrated annually on Jun. 19 to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The hard fact is that Juneteenth is an often overlooked event in our nation’s history. On Jun. 19, 1865, Union troops freed enslaved African Americans in Galveston Bay and across Texas some two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

The author Ralph Ellison wrote a book titled Juneteenth. Carolyn Meyer and Ann Rinaldi have written other books – that also center around the day. Today, some cities and groups across the U.S. have Miss Juneteenth contests.

The name “Juneteenth” references the date of the holiday, combining the words “June” and “nineteenth.” “On Jun. 19, 1865, Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger led the Union Soldiers to Galveston, TX, to announce the end of the war and the freedom of all enslaved people. It is the oldest known holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S. Although the definition of Juneteenth has been recognized for over 20 years, Jun. 19 became a federal holiday in 2021. Thus far, the most common and official Juneteenth flag features red, white, and blue, along with two stars: one five-pointed and one bursting out. In addition to the American flag, the colors of the Pan-African flag are also featured in Juneteenth celebrations. They hold deep cultural significance and represent the heritage and resilience of people of African descent. Red symbolizes the blood shed by ancestors and our troops in the fight for freedom and equality. A good way to commemorate is to wear something red on this historic day.

One area where Black people contribute dramatically is to the economy by creating their businesses. According to 2021 Census data, 161,031 U.S. businesses were Black-owned. Black-owned companies in the U.S. generated $206 billion in annual revenue. These businesses support 3.56 million U.S. jobs.

So, how can we help celebrate this commemorative day and support black-owned businesses? During this time, Stylelujo.com suggests that you use your spending power to help spread equity within the Black community by supporting Black owned and operated businesses. Business owners can highlight their team’s racial and ethnic diversity, share inclusion initiatives, and even tell stories of how your workplace culture has been enriched by diversity. *This form of engagement isn’t just for Juneteenth but should be part of any comprehensive business strategy on a global level. 

And, for forward-thinking business decision makers, Juneteenth is an excellent opportunity to show solidarity by volunteering your time and resources to support Black community members. Consider volunteering at a Juneteenth event or working with local Black-led organizations.

6 Easy Ways To Show Solidarity: 

  1. Buy from Black-owned businesses.
  2. The easiest way to wish someone is by saying, ‘Happy Juneteenth! 
  3. Read books by Black authors about Black experiences.
  4. Eat at Black-owned restaurants.
  5. Donate to organizations that support Black communities.
  6. Visit U.S. destinations to learn more about Black history.

Black-owned businesses create inclusivity within the market and offer the opportunity to create new jobs within their communities and improve their relationships. This promotes the economy by closing the racial wealth gap and aims to increase the country’s capital.

No matter what your personal style is, there are some excellent brands selected by our fashion editors below. Whether you want to dress it up or raise a glass, keep scrolling for our list of the best Black-owned brands in the market today. This list of Black-owned menswear businesses, which we’ll continue to update, highlights everything from fashion, to beauty and spirits…It is a great starting point for people looking to support Black-owned and Black-led brands, and, while doing so, expand your shopping list.

HAPPY JUNETEENTH! 

Bianca Saunders:

Bianca Saunders proudly presented her SS24 collection ‘SCRATCH’, inspired by the idiosyncratic world of multi-hyphenate Jamaican musician and producer Lee “Scratch” Perry – a legendary artist and fashion icon whose influence extends far beyond sound, and into the realms of art, fashion and culture.

Common Ground Spirits:

Courtesy of Common Ground Spirits

Common Ground Spirits; black owned spirits brand that aims to create craft spirits that foster conversation and bring people together.

Gin 02 was inspired by Co-Founder Julian’s love of cooking and watching cooking shows, gleaning inspiration from Top Chef, Chef’s Table, Beat Bobby Flay, and the vibrant flavor pairings of Chef Marcus Samuelsson. Gin 02 combines the earthy fruitiness of black currants with fresh thyme to create a complex and savory gin with a peppery finish.

This is special for Juneteenth because it is a black-owned, small business liquor brand. On a mission to cultivate artisanal spirits that symbolize the human experience of bonding and forming connections, Julian Peebles and Tory Brown founded Common Ground Spirits in 2020. They believe that finding a common ground with those around them is what adds substance and meaning to our lives. Their common ground is the belief that everybody, no matter race, religion, or gender identity should have equal opportunities in all aspects of life—and their approach to premium craft spirits embodies those values. Their hope is that you will join them on this journey and find common ground over a dram of artisanal Gin and Bourbon expressions.

Brother Vellies:

Brother Vellies has some of the most fly luxe shoes on the market. From cow-print mules to checked ankle boots, these are the way to round out your look for summer 2024.

Neir’s Tavern:

Loycent Gordon, Owner of Historic Neir’s Tavern.  Image Courtesy of Neir’s Tavern

Neir’s Tavern is participating in the official Juneteenth bar crawl in Queens between June 14th-June 19th offering specials including an original menu item, the Jerk Chicken Quesadilla, a nod to owner Loycent Gordon’s Jamaican heritage.  #neirsforyears #roadto200 #communityconquersall 

A-COLD-WALL:

Strand Trucker Jacket

A relaxed western jacket receives a vivid bleach wash, each piece overdyed for an uneven pigmentation. Classic details from metal jean shanks to angled flap pockets reference denim standards while a branded PU patch and brutalist graphic introduce sharply contemporary details.

Admiral Row:

Along with their everyday jewelry, Admiral Row also has exquisite curated vintage pieces like earrings, necklaces, and more. Courtesy of Admiral Row

Admiral Row; black owned luxury jewelry brand dedicated to creating exquisite pieces that reflect individuality and elegance.

This is special for Juneteenth because it is a black-owned, small business jewelry brand. Admiral Row was founded with a vision to redefine the jewelry industry. Inspired by a passion for artistry and a desire to offer unique, high-quality pieces, our founder, John Smith, embarked on a journey to create a brand that would capture the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts worldwide. Overcoming challenges and dedicating countless hours to perfecting his craft, John’s perseverance and creativity led to the birth of Admiral Row. Today, our brand remains committed to upholding the values of exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

FRESH by Houston White:

FRESH by Houston White is a black owned personal care brand that was created when Houston White, successful barber and entrepreneur, used his experience as a barber to create a line of personal care products for all people to use and enjoy. Courtesy of FRESH by Houston White

FRESH by Houston White

The high-vibes, inclusive personal care brand to deliver effective routines for a community of people and features 11 solution-oriented haircare, skincare, and body care products ($9 – $12) that offer vibrant packaging and fresh ingredients including Matcha Tea, Lavender, Soothing Aloe Oil, and scented notes of apricot, almond, cedar, and coconut for an ultimate FRESH feel. Each FRESH by Houston White product features a QR code and frequency icons located on each product that drives to a playlist of frequencies to listen to while using FRESH products for a truly immersive sensory experience.

Oyin Handmade:

Oyin Handmade was co-founded by mixtress Jamyla Bennu in 2001 after discovering that many of the products she was using were made with harmful preservatives and non-nourishing fillers. Determined to find a better way to care for her hair and skin, she began experimenting with formulations and testing them, until her passion developed into a business. Jamyla leads Oyin Handmade with a savvy business philosophy of slow and steady growth to ensure quality and emphasize care. Each Oyin Handmade product is cruelty-free, non-toxic, made with eco-friendly sensibilities and handmade using only the finest food-grade ingredients. 

Oyin Handmade now offers a full range of nourishing hair, skin, and body care products for women, men, and children, and are available on www.oyinhandmade.com, the company’s flagship boutique in Baltimore and select Whole Foods stores. 

DuBlasé Whiskey:

DuBlasé Whiskey is a black owned and award-winning whiskey brand. Courtesy of DuBlasé Whiskey


DuBlasé Whiskey
 is a black owned whiskey brand.

DuBlasé is made from natural ingredients that are distilled, matured, and blended under the guidance of their master distiller. Their hand-crafted whiskey brings together complex notes for a balanced and flavorful pour. 

with an authentic and unrivaled taste. Inspired by sophistication, friendship and celebrating life’s special moments, their hand-crafted whiskey brings together complex notes for a balanced and flavorful pour. DuBlasé features a hint of vanilla, complemented with all natural spices, and refined for a smooth and robust finish. DuBlasé’s universal & recognizable appeal is perfect for celebrating life’s special moments with a toast of a glass.

DuBlasé Whiskey is committed to donating a portion of annual sales to the DuBlasé Foundation–a 501c(3) nonprofit organization focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (S.T.E.A.M.) advocacy, by providing resources and academic enrichment to minority students in underserved communities. The DuBlasé Foundation partners youth-serving organizations across the country to advocate education in the areas of S.T.E.A.M.

 RedDrop:

RedDrop 

Tween-focused feminine care brand RedDrop was created by Teacher and Doctor duoDana Roberts and Dr. Monica Williams to empower Tweens/Teens and their families better prepare and understanding their periods by offering products that fit their bodies at affordable prices and without harmful ingredients. When Roberts noticed that half of the girls in her 5th grade class were beginning their periods while at school and with no resources, she began to understand the seriousness of the young girls not being prepared for the life changing moment. Partnering with her friend Dr. Williams, who was also a Mom, the idea to develop period kits, educational resources and affordable products to address the needs of Tween girls’ bodies. RedDrop is on a mission to empower young girls and their families about proper period care, creating generations of leaders that will be ready to tackle the world. RedDrop products and educational virtual resources are available on tryreddrop.com and Amazon.com

Áwet:

Courtesy of Áwet New York

Meye Dress Mini

Áwet New York unveils its SS24 collection, with a collection of stunning sunset-inspired designs. This take on the pleated Flared Sleeve Maxi Dress in royal blue is an elevated essential for fashionistas looking to get the most out of their summer, and support a Black-owned brand. 

The pleated Flared Sleeve Maxi Dress in royal blue is an elegant and elevated essential that allows fashion enthusiasts to celebrate in style while honoring the significance of Juneteenth. By choosing Áwet New York, you are embracing a piece that represents both fashion excellence and a commitment to uplifting Black entrepreneurs, making your Juneteenth celebration both stylish and meaningful.


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