PLANO, Texas (AURN News) — Black businesses are finding creative ways to continue operating amid a recent crackdown on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. In Texas, families gathered in Plano at the end of November for the Black Joy Market, a holiday event centered on culture, community and supporting local Black-owned businesses.
The in-person market invited shoppers to browse a wide range of vendors offering art, fashion, home decor items, wellness products and treats. Organized by Puzzles of Color, the event was designed to help people find unique gifts while supporting local entrepreneurs during the holiday season, organizers said.
“This is really important because we actually were a company that was available at Target a few years ago. We really wanted to create a marketplace for businesses to be able to be celebrated, so you can buy your Christmas gifts from Black businesses,” said Ericka Jones, co-founder of Puzzles of Color, in an interview with AURN News.
“You have to get in front of your customers directly, and so a lot of pop-up events are the way that Black-owned businesses are staying afloat and being able to get to their customers,” she said.
Families who attended also lined up for photos with Black Santa, which organizers described as a celebration of representation and a way to create lasting holiday memories.
The afternoon featured music, food and a festive atmosphere focused on joy and connection. Attendees were encouraged to support My Possibilities, a nonprofit that serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Jones also told AURN News that the Black Joy Market gave the community an opportunity to come together, discover new products and share holiday cheer with friends and family.
Click play to listen to the AURN News report from Jamie Jackson:
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