Empowering Black-Owned Businesses and Embracing Diversity in Marshall, Texas

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

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Black-owned businesses are an integral part of the economic fabric of communities across the United States. In Marshall, Texas, where a strong sense of local identity thrives, the support and promotion of Black-owned businesses are essential for economic development and fostering a more inclusive and diverse environment. As part of Diversity Awareness Month and Black-owned Business Month, it is crucial to highlight the challenges and opportunities Black entrepreneurs face and celebrate organizations that play a vital role in uplifting the Black business community.

Angelita Jackson, Co-Director of the George Washington Carver Community Center, emphasizes how small businesses, especially those owned by Black entrepreneurs, serve as engines of growth for the community. "The economic growth of a community often hinges on small or local businesses," Jackson shared. At its peak, the licensed daycare center had over 50 children. Since its opening in 2020, the GWCCC has provided space for ten minority-owned businesses, including five female-owned companies, four of which are first-time ventures. This support allows small businesses to scale, building sustainable roots in Marshall.

The impact of supporting Black-owned businesses stretches beyond individual ventures. It strengthens the local economy, creates job opportunities, and fosters a sense of pride and ownership among marginalized groups. As Jackson mentioned, "We challenge anyone with a daycare business in their home to consider GWCCC. Look at growing a sustainable business in the community." Through spaces like the GWCCC, Black entrepreneurs can grow their businesses in an environment designed to nurture success.

Diversity: The Key to a Thriving Community

Diversity is more than just a buzzword—it's a driving force behind a thriving and vibrant community. Promoting diversity, especially in business, opens the doors to innovation, collaboration, and economic sustainability. In Marshall, diversity should not be an afterthought but a vital element of the City's revitalization efforts. Jackson believes diversity and inclusion can be achieved through intentional support from all community sectors. "Intentional support from city leadership, business owners with their resources, networking opportunities, financial support, and community support extending across racial, ethical, and social groups will help all businesses." Jackson pointed out that actual economic growth in Marshall can only occur when relationships are forged across different communities. "The community of Marshall must support the community of Marshall, rather than silent silos within Marshall with public and private dollars."

Coming together as a Community to learn, educate, and evolve

Eshia Rae, CEO and Founder of Connect the Culture, LLC, is a Marshall native now residing in Dallas. Her vision for her hometown is deeply rooted in her experiences growing up in the community. "As a Marshall native, I've always wanted the best for my community," Rae explained. "Coming from a small town with a predominantly minority population and a base annual income of $40,000 to $50,000, I have high hopes that we as a community can come together to learn, educate, and evolve."

Rae’s organization, Connect the Culture, focuses on bridging the gap between the community's needs and the resources required to meet them. One key initiative is an annual business networking event called "Network N Chill," which Rae described as "informative, resourceful, and creating opportunities for the community and local business owners to come together." This event, supported by the Marshall Economic Development and other community partners, is helping to establish a pipeline of opportunities for minority-owned businesses in the area.

"With continued support from our community and its leaders, I can see this event impacting many lives by building valuable relationships and creating job and business opportunities over the next few years," Rae said.

Moving Forward: A Vision for Marshall's Future

Marshall's future depends on the community supporting its local businesses, especially those led by minority entrepreneurs. Jackson shared her optimism for the City, stating, "I am excited to see things take place downtown as the heart of the City. A strong heart creates and sustains life. But the outlining communities, its limbs, lift the body to create forward movement.”

Through organizations like the GWCCC, Marshall has the potential to become a more inclusive, vibrant, and economically sustainable community where all people, communities, and businesses can succeed. Marshall can genuinely live again by embracing diversity and actively supporting Black-owned businesses. Jackson passionately believes, "With the support of the City, I believe Marshall can become a thriving community once again."

Eshia Rae concluded, "We must come together from different walks of life to learn, educate, and see opportunities from different perspectives to evolve, collaborate, and build our community."

To learn more about how Marshall Economic Development can support your business or to get involved in our economic development initiatives, visit our website or contact us here.

Category: News