Black History Month was created as a celebration of the accomplishments of Black Americans. It has a contentious history and present. Devoting only one month, and the shortest one at that, to the contributions Black Americans have made is inadequate and frequently ignores the wrongs America has inflicted on them. It is only highlighted this year where the ongoing panic over Critical Race Theory has led to fascistic book banning and trying to overturn Black History Month itself.
But American corporations are only too glad to hop on the Black History Month bandwagon for capitalism’s sake. Meanwhile, American culture co-opts much from the Black community and instead of giving back, dollars get diverted away from Black businesses and entire market categories ignore the needs of Black consumers. Black-owned businesses were some of the hardest hit of the pandemic. After sustaining a drop of 40%, some are coming back strong, bolstered in part by the Buy Black movement. But they are still in need of wider support.
While one month of shopping is not going to undo injustice, it is a time to become more aware of the power of the dollar and the variety of choices we have when we spend it. PCMag has put together this list of Black-owned businesses that have products and services available online that can help you make better buying decisions and better your life. We encourage you to make more culturally conscious buying decisions this month and throughout the year.
1. Chic Geeks
Your electronics can make their way through life au naturel or they can be chic. Chic Geeks makes cases and coverings for laptops, phones, webcams, and even keyboards.
2. Hairbella
Rain can ruin a lot of things, including hairstyles. Hairbrella solves that problem by protecting hair in a way that an umbrella could never hope to. The ingenious design of the original has gotten a COVID-inspired makeover with extended protection in the form of a face shield. There’s also a great satin-lined vegan trapper hat perfect for winter.
3. SW&G Essentials
Everybody could use some spa time now but with social distancing, your local spa (read: bathroom) is best. Stock up on some supplies from SW&G Essentials, like this loofah-infused soap.
4. The Lit Bar
The number of bookstores (not just independent bookstores but any bookstore) in the outer boroughs of New York has dwindled so much that some just have one. The Bronx had none after a Barnes & Noble closed, and that’s when The Lit Bar came to be.
5. Ailey Extension
Whether you’re missing the gym or have just decided to start an exercise program, Ailey Extension will keep you on your toes. The program is part of Alvin Ailey’s legacy and although the classes used to be available only to those in New York, they’re now also conducted by Zoom. The classes are dance-centric but not dance-exclusive.
6. Puzzle Huddle
Puzzles arguably have never fallen out of favor, but rarely in recent times have they been so popular. Puzzle Huddle has lots of colorful, cheerful puzzles for kids of all ages. The Ada Twist Scientist collection is a particular delight.
7. Celsious
Celsious is the most stylish a neighborhood laundromat gets. While you can’t have the in-person experience, don’t get in a lather; its phenomenal, eco-friendly products are available online.
8. Blk & Bold
That hot beverage you were treating yourself to from the corner coffee shop might be on hold, but with Blk & Bold you can become your own barista. The shop sells coffee and tea blends and has a subscription service if you want to stay fully stocked.
9. Beauty Bakerie
Who doesn’t love a happy store? Beauty Bakerie is one. Founder Cashmere Nicole was a single mom at 16, put herself through nursing school, made it through breast cancer, and still somehow managed to create a multimillion-dollar beauty empire. Its dessert-themed aesthetic is deliciously good.
10. Miiriya
Miiriya is like an Etsy of Black-owned shops. You can find fashion, hair products, decor, art, and more. It also has an entertaining Twitter account.
11. EatOkra
You may never have cooked at home as much as you have during the pandemic. When you need a break, delivery and takeout options are available through lots of apps but with EatOkra, you’ll be supporting Black-owned restaurants in your own neighborhood.
12. Swivel and Styleseat
Finding a hairstylist who has experience with Black hair can be a challenge, even for models and actors. Whether it’s for a cut or styling, Swivel and Styleseat set out to connect clients to those who are skilled and experienced with natural hair, locs, silk presses, and more.
13. Clare
For beautiful paint colors that have no VOCs and everything you need for a painting project delivered to your door, Clare has it all. You can even get a peel-and-stick swatch of colors you’re considering.
