Supporting Our Neighbors in the Black Community
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The rejuvenation of the Black Lives Matter movement has showcased the importance of support for the Black community and our Black neighbors. We are dedicated to actively learning, and unlearning, about systemic racism and ways to better show our support. We welcome any education and resources you may have to share with us, and want to make sure that our clients have resources as well. There are many ways that we can support and uplift the Black community; a good place to start is to support local Black-owned businesses and organizations that advocate for equality.
Mission & Vision: BlackPDX.com is a virtual community hub created to amplify the voices and message of the black community in the greater Portland Metro area, ultimately to improve economic conditions for black families. We provide assistance to business owners, non-profits, creatives and other organizations to increase their reach and provide unique and needed opportunities for community connection.”
Created by Brothaman Tech, a group of Black teens who are leveraging skills, history, style, and strength to support and uplift the Black community in our area. In addition to providing assistance to business owners, non-profits and creatives, they also provide employment and career opportunities to members of the Black community, specifically teens and young adults.
On the BlackPDX.com website you can search Black-owned businesses and organizations while learning more about their mission, as well as how to get involved as a patron.
Mission & Vision: “Mercatus elevates the unique and universal narratives of entrepreneurs of color in Portland and connects the city and region with local talents, businesses, services and products that come from diverse entrepreneurs.”
With an impressive directory of BIPoC-owned businesses, including a directory of businesses that are currently open during the COVID pandemic, Mercatus is an excellent resource for finding Black and BIPoC-owned businesses to support within the Portland Metro area.
Check out their complete business directory here to search by category – such as home goods, fashion and accessories, health and wellness, or packaged food products.
For a comprehensive list of Black-owned restaurants, eateries, vineyards, food carts (and more), be sure to check out the restaurant directory from I Love Black Food.
While there may be restrictions related to dining as a result of COVID-19, the directory clearly outlines status updates when available, providing information as to which businesses are currently open, and how they are serving clients – whether that is onsite or curb-side pick-up only.
NAACP
Vision Statement: “The Vision of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is to ensure a society in which all individuals have equal rights without discrimination based on race."
Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the largest and most pre-eminent civil rights organization in the nation with over 2000 units and branches across the United States. With extensive civic engagement opportunities and empowerment programs, as well as a wealth of information related to racial inequality, the NAACP can be a great resource for information and current issues, including information on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Black community.
Visit the organization’s site here for more information on how you can get involved.
While it is incredible to see so many people coming together to support and uplift the Black community, it is important that we remember to continue that support moving forward.
