Ald. Jason Ervin, State Rep. Kim DuBuclet, Cook County Commissioner Toni Preckwinkle, Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, Ald. William Hall, Mayor Brandon Johnson, Pastor Charlie Dates and Rev. James Meeks and other notable officials gather near 75th and King Drive for “Spend in the Black” ribbon cutting (Photo Credit: Tacuma Roeback).
On a cool, overcast Saturday morning filled with promise and intention, hundreds gathered on 75th and King Drive to do more than just shop—they descended upon this historic South Side corridor for a singular purpose: to spark a movement.
The “Spend in the Black” event, spearheaded by Rev. Dr. Charlie Dates and Ald. William Hall (6th), was a showcase for Black entrepreneurship and economic self-determination. With more than 100 vendors, hourly $1,000 giveaways, and a surge of community pride, the block pulsed with energy and activity. The aim: encourage consumers to spend their money with the viable Black businesses that already exist in the city…