01-03-2025
Supporters of Blackout Friday support Triad businesses
WINSTON-SALEM (WGHP) — Blackout Friday is a national movement with the goal of not buying anything from major retailers and directing all spending to local businesses only if necessary.
It comes after major retailers like Target had a rollback on diversity, equity and inclusion Initiatives.
Supporters say they want those big retailers to feel the impact of their hard-earned dollars to let them know they don't support this decision.
'From my understanding, the core is to not spend at all … But if you are going to spend money, if you need those things, shop Black-owned businesses. Shop local businesses,' Founder of the Buy Black Guide Temoura Jefferies said.
The goal is to let major retailers know they don't support large business decisions going away from DEI policies.
'It's showing the power of Black dollars. It shows that we have power. It's putting resources into Black businesses,' Jefferies said.
It's support Jefferies feels has been lost. Now, she's putting her money back into her community and showing others how to do the same.
Veronica Bitting wanted to show her power by supporting BYGood Coffee.
'I think that we should shop and support Black-owned establishments. I won't go to Starbucks. I'm coming here to BYGood Coffee,' Bitting said.
She says she wants to support local business owners every day.
'Not just today. I think that this is something that needs to happen multiple days, multiple months, entire years,' Bitting said.
Abbey Garner, the owner of BYGood Coffee, says she's seen the impact in a good way.
'I think the blackout is what is bringing in all the new faces,' Garner said.
She says she and her husband have been grinding for five years, so the change of speed to get recognition and local dollars is what she hopes to see more of in the future.
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