The Beauty of Community: Supporting Black-Owned Brands Amidst DEI Challenges

In a world filled with noise and chaos, the conversation around the treatment of Black brands feels louder than ever. And as a Black beauty business owner, I want to take the time to address it head-on. Can I be real with y'all? There’s so much happening right now, and I know some of you might roll your eyes and think, “Here we go again, why does every post have to focus on race?” Honestly, I get it. I'm real tired too?? But we can’t ignore the ongoing discussions around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), when it comes to Black beauty brands making waves in spaces like Target, Walmart, and Amazon.

As a devoted fan of skincare brands like Black Girl Sunscreen, Undefined, and Rosen, as well as makeup lines like The Lip Bar and Mented, and hair care favorites such as The Doux and Camille Rose, I've spent countless hours watching videos on other social platforms that highlight the passion and dedication of the founders behind these brands. However, it’s been heartbreaking to see their dreams seemingly ripped away in an instant. Now, I find myself at a crossroads as a Black beauty entrepreneur and loyal customer, grappling with how to invest my hard-earned dollars in companies that may not truly value me or the marginalized communities they represent.

But here’s the silver lining: I’m incredibly inspired by the wave of community organizing happening right now. Initiatives like Buy from a Black Woman and Shop the Hood are shining a light on where to find Black-owned businesses, including beauty brands that deserve our support. It’s uplifting to see folks come together, advocating for one another and fostering connections that matter.

As we navigate these complex waters, I want to hear from you. How do you feel about the current landscape? Are you feeling the pressure as well? It’s essential that we engage in this conversation and support one another as we seek out authentic brands that truly prioritize inclusivity and respect.

Let’s lean into the beauty of community, and together, we can uplift and champion Black-owned brands in an industry that needs our voices. Share your thoughts, and let’s keep this dialogue going!