‘Blackout Tuesday’ has people across the nation sending a message at the register. The movement calls for communities to shop exclusively at black-owned businesses. That includes here in Central Texas where people were out supporting the cause.
Tera Martin, of Pflugerville, was one of those out buying with intention, “This is one of my ways to contribute to support a black-owned business with the Blackout Tuesday.”
Which is why she chose Gossip Shack 2, a locallyblack-owned businesses for lunch. “If we exercise our rights and try to support one another, it starts here, it starts today,” said Martin.
Martin isn’t alone, the Blackout Tuesday movement has people across the U.S. buying from black-owned businesses. The day is aimed to highlight the significance of the black dollar.
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Michael Blaylark is Gossip Shack’s part-owner, “Small businesses are already suffering right now, but especially black businesses. We need more support.”
He says the economic protest is another way the community is coming together in the continued fight for equality. Something he hopes will become the new normal, “Come in not only because it’s blackout day but come see us on a regular day,” said Blaylark.
Patrons like Martin say the movement is a step in the right direction,”It’s not just about the black and brown community, it’s the community as whole supporting the black dollar. We purchase everywhere else on every other day, so why not support your own,” she said.
