Checking in with Black-owned businesses

After the murder of George Floyd, racial inequality became a focus of public conversation and talk turned to how to support Black-owned businesses. 

Black Americans are about 13 percent of the U.S. population — but own only 2 percent of small businesses with more than one employee. And, during the pandemic, Black-owned businesses have been more likely to struggle.

To address the gaps, nonprofit organizations, banks and corporations pledged to increase support for entrepreneurs of color. Magazines and other media compiled lists to steer socially conscious consumers to Black-owned restaurants and stores. 

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with Black business leaders about whether that support showed up and whether it made a difference. 

Guests:

• Mateo Mackbee is chef and co-owner with his partner Erin Lucas of Krewe, a New Orleans-inspired restaurant that opened May 2020 in St. Joseph, Minn.

• Wen Muenyi is founder of HercLéon, a textile, clothing and bedding company based in St. Paul.

• Anisha Murphy is the founder of Just Law LLC, which is part of the Black Business Support Collective. 

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.