Initially, Black History Month was a way of teaching students and young people about Black and African-Americans' contributions. Such stories had been largely forgotten and were a neglected part of the national narrative.
Now, it's seen as a celebration of those who've impacted not just the country but the world with their activism and achievements. In the US, the month-long spotlight during February is an opportunity for people to engage with Black histories, go beyond discussions of racism and slavery, and highlight Black leaders and accomplishments. (Alem Tedeneke)
This month, and every month, Female Founder Collective and The 10th House work to highlight the importance of spotlighting and amplifying Black founders. To celebrate this year, we’re sharing resources and quotes from some of our favorite entrepreneurs.
To be honest, when I think of being a black female founder during Black History Month, I think about how freaking proud I am to see all of the beautiful, magical AF women there are out there just kicking butt. This fills my heart with so much pride and love for so many reasons. I know firsthand how difficult it is to take an idea and turn it into a business, regardless of race, gender, etc. But, when you add those extra layers, in a society that doubts the most marginalized folks at every twist and turn, almost expecting them to fail, and they still rise? My goodness, all I see is the magic of the universe and a bunch of badass goddesses, capable of any and all things. So, when Black History comes around and I see my sisters getting a little sliver of the praise, support, and accolades they deserve, I cheer. - Shereen Campbell
As a black female founder, I am proud to help shift the narrative on what leadership and wealth creation look like. - Anika Janelle Pettiford, Janelle Beauty
If I could sum up what being a Black female founder means to me in one word, I'd use the word legacy - especially as I'm a Black female founder in the fashion and retail space, which is notoriously not diverse. Every day, through my companies, I work towards my legacy of creating a significant impact on moving the retail industry forward and into a more diverse, vibrant, and equitable place for all. - DeAnna McIntosh, Retailing Evolved®
I am inspired and determined to triumph despite the odds. Being black and a female founder means that I am part of this powerful community that can take on anything that the world throws at me. Like those before me, I have a responsibility to ensure that our stories continue to be told and our voices are heard. When one of us rises we all rise. - Kisha Tyrrell, Enzuri Beauty
As the founder of @cecilias.house, the premier destination for luxury art and home decor that affirms Black women, I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support of other Black women. Cecilia’s House is Black history in the making and that is because of Black women. - Kadisha Phillips, Cecilia's House
Black History Month is a beautiful celebration -- a time to cherish our past while resting in the hope for tomorrow. I'm typically pretty long-winded, but this actually felt like an honest summary of how I feel about BHM & Juneteenth. It's such a sacred time to love on each other as one big colorful family -- a virtual family reunion. - Tiffany Staten, London Grant Co.
Being a black female founder means I not only get to live my dreams daily but I get to be part of the collective paving the way for young black girls who will be future female founders too. - CJ Smith, We Scale
Being a black founder during Black History Month allows me to reflect on my family’s ancestry and use that history to continue to build a business they would be proud of. - Tracy Wright, Plant-Based Mary Jane
Being a black female founder means that I can use my influence and platform to be an example for other black women who dream of taking control of their dreams and creating generational wealth. My presence lets them know everything is possible. - Kimone Napier
