Mayor Addresses “State of Black Businesses”

As a continuation of his Lakeside Chats, Mayor Brandon Johnson appeared before the Business Leadership Council (BLC) for a “State of Black business” address and assured African American small business owners they will not be left behind. 

During a June 23, late-night panel discussion at 317 N. Clark Street, Johnson not only listed the many human investments his administration has made but assured small business owners of his commitment to honor and practice Diversity, Equity and Inclusion of Black businesses which in the past have been left behind. 

The “State of Black Business” was convened by Business Leadership Council (BLC) CEO Keiana Barrett in partnership with the Chicago Urban League (Chicago, IL), headed by Karen Freeman-Wilson, President/CEO. 

Johnson was accompanied by panelists who provided information about the different city portals and services available to help Black businesses open and expand. 

The panel included Department of Planning and Development Commissioner Ciere Boatright, Chief Procurement Officer Sharla Roberts, and Chief Small Business Officer Lotika Pai. 

The mayor vowed to make city processes more business friendly and to cut the red tape that has hampered small businesses in the past, including reducing the wait times for permits, licenses, and other routine Chicago business approvals. 

The senior officials and the mayor also talked about the city’s work with local community organizations such as the Chicago Urban League and Chatham Business Association. Both organizations prepare small business owners to grow, scale and compete in city and other economic opportunities. 

During the discussion, again Mayor Johnson made it clear he was unapologetically in favor of investing in Black businesses, given their importance in the Black community, especially in the areas of employment and philanthropy. 

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