Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, equality, and opportunity, particularly for the black community. Black-owned businesses in Wichita Falls recognize the significance of being business owners as a way to honor those who paved the way for them. In America, there are 3.5 million black-owned businesses, a testament to the progress made over time.
The owner of Rica Dolls, Jerrica Castle, emphasizes the importance of passion and fulfillment in one’s work rather than just monetary success. She believes that waking up every day to do what you love is a significant achievement. Juneteenth commemorates the day when slaves in Texas were finally emancipated, marking a milestone in the fight for freedom and equality for all. For businesses like 1925 Nova, owned by Cree Calloway, Juneteenth symbolizes the independence and empowerment of every individual in the country.
Despite facing challenges like segregation and discrimination during Jim Crow laws, black-owned businesses seized opportunities for entrepreneurship leading to what was known as the golden age of black-owned businesses from 1900 to 1930. Today’s black business owners aim to empower their clients to feel beautiful and confident in their own skin by providing products and services that cater to unique needs and experiences of the black community promoting self-care and self-love.
Juneteenth approaches with these business owners hoping to inspire their community regardless of skin color to pursue their dreams and believe in their ability to succeed in any venture they choose by acknowledging struggles and triumphs of past they aim towards creating more inclusive future for all individuals
