One of the psychological issues we have as a people is we view black-owned businesses as “less than”. It’s so deep in our minds that when we see one open up, we go straight into criticism mode or flaw-seeking even before we experience their product or service.

We expect them to sponsor, giveback, support our local organizations, youth sports teams, local politicians, etc. as if they are entitled to the black owner’s support. We don’t have this same requirement from the nail shops, dry cleaners, restaurants, and pharmacies not owned by our people.

We don’t do this when other businesses open. We shop with them optimistically and treat their flaws as isolated incidents. We don’t say I am no longer supporting (blank race) businesses anymore. We keep going to them or their friends down the street. We only say that about ourselves. We don’t view a business owned by a black person as the norm. So when we see it, we view it as odd and something worthy of higher expectations or criticism.

We have a long way to go. Shop black without the pre-conceived stereotypes.

By:Black Businesses Matter