Support Black Owned Businesses in Kansas City

 

In honor of February being Black History month, it is important to both understand its significance and the impact you can make as well. This time of the year shines a light on black culture and its prevalence within our country’s history and future. Despite the history of racism and oppression within America, this month offers a chance to celebrate the achievements that African Americans have accomplished in this country. As President Gerald Ford, who was the first to officially recognize Black History Month, said:

 

“Seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.

While understanding why this month matters is important, it is of equal importance to understand how you can do your part. Throughout Kansas City alone, there are a plethora of black-owned and black women-owned businesses that you can support. KC Black Owned is an online resource directory, showing local black owned businesses you are able to make part of your monthly routines. From health and wellness, to food that will seep into your soul, they have it all. The directory provides updates on sales and promotions, new and upcoming businesses, donations and black-owned charities that directly impact the community. Below are just a few of this month’s featured places. 

Soiree Steak & Oyster House

Soiree Steak and Oyster House is not your typical steakhouse. In fact, despite its name, it is not really a steakhouse at all. Soiree Steak & Oyster House is a black and woman-owned soul food restaurant located in the historic 18th Street & Vine entertainment district. Chef Anita Moore is one of the 40 local businesses that will be home to Kansas City’s new airport terminal, which is part of a larger effort to offer significant opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses.

The gourmet grub & tc’s fully loaded

Both The Gourmet Grub and TC’s Fully Loaded provide new, delicious, and eye-pleasing food truck options for a bite to eat but not without unique challenges. After months of hardship, the small business pop-up community started a petition concerning the city’s permit and licensing requirements as they tend to be a barrier for many’s success. Previously, Kansas City had a different designated permit for 14 market types, including temporary operations. Now, businesses can operate with the protection of an annual permit instead of requiring a new permit for each pop-up. You can find both businesses motoring around the city looking to serve you.

Bliss books & wine

With a grand opening on February 18, Bliss Books & Wine is Kansas City’s newest independently owned black bookstore for people who love reading and enjoy drinking wine. As seen in The Oprah Magazine, this bookstore works to promote reading culture by encouraging curious readers, promoting local arts, and spotlighting local authors. The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 forced co-founders and sisters La’Nesha Frazier and La’Nae Robinson to take their pop up business virtual. They were finally able to open their doors after working with KCMO city councilwoman, Andrea Bough to change the city’s ordinance to allow the sisters to be eligible for a waiver for a liquor license. This is just one success story of how black owned businesses work with and for the community to provide new opportunities and experiences. Learn more about the store’s book clubs, special events and hours by visiting its website.

You can find more businesses within the BlackOwnedKC.org directory to support during Black History Month and beyond.  This is just one of the ways you can encourage cultural competency and engage with your community. Make these one of your personal go-to spots and continue to support local businesses in Kansas City. Together we can support, grow, and make sure that our community thrives!

GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THE HUNT TODAY!

Come join us on Saturday, March 30 for our annual signature event – a photo scavenger hunt in downtown KC. All funds help provide grants for our experiential learning programs.

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