A Message From The Publisher
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be Matthew 6:21 ESV
By Bobby R. Henry, Sr., Publisher
A Movement for Empowerment
The Westside Gazette Newspaper, as part of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, Public Education and Selective Buying campaign, proudly stand with the voices of nearly 230 Black-owned media companies nationwide. Together, we serve 22 million readers weekly, sharing stories that matter, uplifting our communities, and fostering self-awareness. Our mission is clear: to empower our audience with the knowledge and tools to make a difference in where and how we spend our hard-earned Black dollar$
Every dollar we spend is a statement, a vote for the businesses, industries, and values that align with our economic and social priorities. Black dollar$ represents immense financial power, and how we use them determines the future of our communities.
How Do We Speak Daily with Our Black Dollar$?
We communicate our values through our spending choices:
- Where We Spend: Prioritizing respectable Black-owned businesses, ethical companies, and institutions that uplift Black communities.
- What We Demand: Ensuring corporations commit to diversity, equity, inclusion and the fair treatment of Black employees and customers.
- How We Invest: Building generational wealth through homeownership, stocks, Black banks, and community-driven initiatives.
- What We Reject: Avoiding businesses that exploit, disrespect, or fail to serve Black consumers fairly.
How Much Is the Black Dollar Worth?
Black Americans hold a buying power exceeding $1.8 trillion annually. Yet, the Black dollar circulates within our community for a far shorter duration compared to other racial and ethnic groups. Strengthening Black wealth requires reinvesting in Black businesses, financial institutions, and community-driven initiatives.
Who Deserves Our Black Dollar$?
- Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs
- Corporations that invest in Black communities through our youth programs, employment, funding, and equitable practices
- Financial institutions that support Black wealth-building efforts, such as Black banks and credit unions
- Businesses with ethical labor practices and responsible supply chains
Who Is Not Worthy of Our Black Spending Power?
- Companies that exploit Black culture while giving nothing back
- Brands with a track record of discrimination or mistreatment of Black employees and customers
- Businesses that fund policies or politicians harmful to Black communities
- Financial institutions with histories of redlining, predatory lending, or economic exclusion
The power of Black dollar$ are undeniable. By making intentional financial choices, we can create lasting change, build wealth, and strengthen our communities for generations to come. Support Businesses That Support You. Our dollars hold power—and where we spend matters. Companies that value equity, fairness, and community reinvestment deserve our support. But those that disrespect us, neglect our neighborhoods, or ignore our contributions must feel the weight of our collective voice. Every purchase is a vote. Every dollar is a declaration of our values. Join us in our Public Education and Selective Buying campaign, together we make a difference!
