Our Spending Habits Have Power
Supporting Black-owned businesses is not just a trendy hashtag, it is key to helping shape the future of our economy.
FIRST PUBLISHED IN ISSUE 50
This year will go down in history for many reasons and one of them is advocating for and supporting Black-owned businesses. The call to support Black-owned businesses is long overdue, and understanding why it matters and how our spending habits have power is important.
1. Closing the Racial Wealth Gap – Today’s racial wealth gap can be traced back to Jim Crow-era practices like redlining and job discrimination. These practices segregated African Americans from higher-paying jobs and homeownership opportunities that ultimately prevented generational wealth building.
2. Supporting the Local Economy – When small businesses thrive, so do their respective communities.
3. Holding Large Corporations Accountable – Launched in 2020, The 15 Percent Pledge, a 501c3 non-profit advocacy organization, is urging major retailers to commit 15 percent of their shelf-space to Black-owned businesses. The 15 Percent Pledge seeks economic equality and prosperity for Black future founders, Black students, and Black people in the workforce.
Here are 10 local notable Black-owned businesses to support in Greater Lakeland.
Natural Vibes for Life
naturalvibesforlife.com
Natural, plant-based health and beauty products.
Cori Rose Handmade
corirose.com
Unique and carefully crafted jewelry prices
Belle La Vie
bellelaviesalonandspa.com
4525 Florida Ave S Suite #16, Lakeland, FL 33813
Belle La Vie Spa & Salon offers a unique and enjoyable experience that caters to all your relaxation and beautification needs.
Pinder Counseling
pindercounseling.com
6039 Cypress Gardens Blvd Suite 211, Winter Haven, FL 33884
Pinder Counseling is both a Private Practice and Consulting Firm offering services specific to the Mental Health Industry.
16.92 Coffee Matcha Bar
A mobile coffee and matcha bar.
Amonie Jo’s Coffee
118 Avenue A SE, Winter Haven, FL 33880
A mobile coffee and pastry shop.
Midtown Dental
mymidtowndental.com
607 S. Missouri Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33815
Established over 10 years ago, Midtown Dental is known for its customer service and engagement in the community.
Lauren Nailed It
1224 S. Florida Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33803
Owner and Nail Technician of Lauren Nailed It, Ashanti Lauren is an expert on all things natural nails and nail designs.
Relax It’s Natural
relaxitsnatural.com
807 Florida Avenue, Lakeland, FL
A unisex salon + spa focusing on natural hair care.
Our Noire Kitchen
ournoirekitchen.com
A local catering company and private chef services dedicated to serving bold, innovative flavors you won’t find anywhere else.