In a first for Multnomah County, Commissioner Shannon Singleton will lead a groundbreaking recognition of August as National Black Business Month, showcasing the administration's dedication to integrating economic advancement and entrepreneurship within the framework of restorative justice. A proclamation to this effect is scheduled for approval by the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday, Aug. 6.
The approaching event, as announced on the official Multnomah County website, will cast a spotlight on the prevalence of certified Black-owned Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) and businesses accredited by the Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (COBID) in Multnomah County, specifically District 2. Commissioner Singleton's initiative not only marks an important observance but also propels dialogues surrounding the economic contribution and endurance of the Black business community.
An opportunity for in-person interviews will be available with key figures such as District 2 Commissioner Singleton, Pitch Black Organizer Stephen Green, and Black business owner Anyeley Hallová. The event showcasing this historic proclamation will commence at 12 p.m. in the Multnomah County Boardroom and will also be accessible via a virtual link on MultCoBoard's YouTube channel.
The recognition of August as National Black Business Month stems from the efforts of historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan in 2004, aiming at advancing policy reforms for African American businesses and bolstering economic independence within Black communities. Commissioner Singleton plans to highlight a different Black-owned business daily on her social media throughout the month, according to the county's press release. She will also visit various industry-related businesses weekly, facilitating discussions on the issues they face, their achievements, and seeking insights on how Multnomah County can further uplift Black entrepreneurship.
From education and early learning enterprises to creative arts and healthcare, Commissioner Singleton will be engaging with a spectrum of Black-owned businesses. A detailed agenda for Commissioner Singleton's visits, including the sectors of Black Education and Early Learning Businesses, Black Professional Services, Black Creatives, Artists and Entertainers, and Black Health and Healthcare, is outlined on the county's proclamation agenda page. Interested parties can request more information by reaching out to [email protected].
