Philadelphia Initiative Raises $25 Million for Black Women-Owned Businesses
A remarkable initiative in Philadelphia is making waves by raising $25 million to support Black women-owned businesses. In a society where bigotry and violence often target minority entrepreneurs, the community builder and digital activist, Minista Jazz, decided to take action beyond social media hashtags.
The story began when Philadelphia restaurant Chubby Chicks faced racial discrimination and harassment from neighbors, sparking a wave of support for the owner in February. Similarly, a Texas bookstore called BlackLIT closed its storefront due to harassment, shedding light on the financial challenges Black women entrepreneurs face in starting and maintaining businesses.
Despite these challenges, the entrepreneurial spirit of Black women is thriving, with the fastest-growing demographic in entrepreneurship. However, only three percent of businesses led by Black women make it past the five-year mark due to a lack of initial capital. Determined to make a difference, Minista Jazz and her sister, Jeannine Cook, founded Sisterhood Sit-In five years ago, which has since supported numerous Philadelphia entrepreneurs through their annual trolley tours.
Expanding their vision nationwide, the siblings launched ROOTED 2025, an economic empowerment tour and digital sit-in to take place in 22 cities from April 10th to 19th. The goal is to pour $25 million in revenue into Black women-owned businesses, involving more than 100,000 participants in the movement.
Empowering Black Women Entrepreneurs Nationwide
ROOTED 2025 is not just about financial support; it is a movement to recognize the resilience, creativity, and strength of Black women in business. Collaborating with 44 Black legislators, Sisterhood Sit-In is advocating for April to be recognized as Black Women’s History Month, a testament to the impactful work of Georgia native Sha Battle.
According to Reuters, Black women entrepreneurs are at the forefront of harmful practices that shut down diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at major retailers. ROOTED 2025 aims to remind people that Black women have always been the driving force in communities, cultural preservation, and economic success.
Minista Jazz’s personal connection to supporting Black women-owned businesses runs deep, as her sister owns Harriett’s Bookshop, a tribute to Harriet Tubman supporting Black women authors and activists. In the face of racist threats and emails that targeted Harriett’s Bookshop and other Black-owned businesses in Philadelphia, the sisters responded with activism and solidarity.
Preserving Heritage and Building Community
As the ROOTED 2025 tour travels through historic Black business districts, known as “Freedom Routes,” participants will explore the legacy of Black excellence amidst adversity. These districts tell stories of resilience and strength, from the Jackson Ward neighborhood in Richmond to the Fourth Avenue district in Birmingham.
Through these tours, participants will shop at and support Black women-owned businesses, contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage and economic empowerment. The initiative aims to highlight the importance of communal support, love, and unity in the face of systemic challenges.
ROOTED 2025 also extends its reach through a digital sit-in, where participants can engage in virtual gatherings, discussions, and activities focused on financial literacy, land ownership, sustainability, and the arts. Minista Jazz’s creation of the Digital Kitchen reflects the sacred space of togetherness and safety found in Black households, mirroring the sense of community and empowerment.
As the initiative gains momentum and participants join in the movement, the message of ROOTED 2025 remains clear: sisterhood is the future. By standing together, supporting one another, and embracing the power of Black women’s entrepreneurship, the community is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
In conclusion, ROOTED 2025 embodies the spirit of resilience, unity, and empowerment, showcasing the strength of Black women entrepreneurs and their vital role in shaping communities and economies. As the initiative continues to grow and inspire, the legacy of support and solidarity will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on generations to come.
