Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been a hot topic in recent weeks. The current administration is doing away with DEI initiatives across the board in the government and the Department of Education. This is a dangerous slippery slope, and as African Americans we need to fight back with our dollars to drive change with DEI. Here I’m breaking down what DEI means in simple terms. And more importantly, how can we, as African Americans, move beyond just words and promises to take control of our economic power?
What is DEI?
At its core, DEI stands for, Diversity, which means ensuring that different types of people, across race, gender, background, identity and experience are included in workplaces and have leadership and decision-making power. Equity means going beyond equality and making sure that those who need additional resources have the same support as others. And finally, when we talk about Inclusion, we mean we create an environment where all people feel heard and have access to opportunity.
Supporting Companies That Still Value DEI
Right now it is becoming more and more difficult for government-funded business to provide DEI services. Schools risk being defunded, federal employees are being laid off by the thousands, and we’re heading for some significant challenges going forward. But, we need to be diligent when it comes to the businesses we support and how they’re reacting to the anti-DEI initiatives. Here are a few key questions to ask about a company, to determine whether or not your hard-earned dollars should be spent with them.
- Do they have Black executives in leadership roles?
- Are they investing in Black-owned businesses and suppliers?
- What organizations do they donate to, and are those organizations actually making an impact in our communities?
- Are they rolling back their DEI programs?
The Power of Shopping Small and Supporting Black-Owned Businesses
One of the most effective ways to drive change with DEI is by choosing where we spend our money. The Black community in America has an estimated buying power of over $1.8 trillion. But, we’re still significantly spending our dollars on businesses that don’t care about us. Shopping small and supporting Black-owned businesses isn’t just about economic empowerment, it’s about keeping our dollars in our communities, funding future Black entrepreneurs, and breaking the cycle of economic disparity.
Here’s how we can do that:
- Prioritize Black-Owned Brands: Instead of automatically shopping at big-box stores, look for Black-owned alternatives.
- Support Local: Many Black-owned businesses operate in our own communities, whether it’s a restaurant, clothing store, or service provider. Give them your business instead of national chains.
- Spread the Word: When you find a great Black-owned business, share it on social media, leave positive reviews, and recommend it to friends and family.
Should We Boycott? Is it Realistic To Do So?
Boycotts have historically been a powerful tool for change. But, boycotting is not always an easy or realistic option for everyone. Many large corporations dominate industries in ways that make them unavoidable. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t hold them accountable, though. Instead of an all-or-nothing approach, consider these strategies:
- Support Black-owned where you can: If you can’t completely avoid major retailers, choose to buy certain products only from Black-owned businesses.
- Demand companies change: Engage with brands on social media, ask them tough questions, and push for better representation and policies.
- Invest in Black-owned alternatives: If a business you love is Black-owned, help them grow by supporting them consistently.
Challenge the Narrative and Drive Change With DEI
Companies will always prioritize profit, shaping their decisions based on what benefits their bottom line. Companies that support the current administration either never really cared about DEI or are just trying to ensure they aren’t the administration’s next target. That said, they aren’t going to prioritize real, meaningful change. That starts starts with us.
As consumers, we hold immense power in shaping the market. Every dollar we spend is a vote for the type of world we want to live in. Choose to support ethical businesses, small local shops, or brands that align with our values. This sends a clear message that integrity, sustainability, and social responsibility matter.
Intentional spending not only influences corporations but also strengthens communities. Investing in local businesses creates jobs and boosts economic growth, keeping wealth within neighborhoods rather than funneling it to billionaires and shareholders. Holding large corporations accountable is essential—questioning their practices, demanding transparency, and refusing to support those that exploit workers, harm the environment, or act unethically.
By shifting our mindset and taking action, we can reshape industries and create a more just, equitable world. Let’s change the narrative together.
What’s one Black-owned business you’ll support this month? Drop it in the comments and let’s keep the momentum going!
