06/03/2025
WHEREAS, Black-owned businesses are essential to a thriving and equitable economy, yet remain underrepresented – making up just 1.5 percent of small businesses in Arizona despite Black Arizonans comprising 4.7 percent of the state’s population, and
WHEREAS, the National Bureau of Economic Research found that 41 percent of Black-owned businesses in the United States were lost in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the need for bold and community-driven economic support; and
WHEREAS, in June 2020, in the spirit of resilience and innovation, Blax Friday was founded to elevate and connect Black-owned businesses across Arizona – becoming the state’s largest Black business directory and the only app of its kind; and
WHEREAS, over the past five years, Blax Friday has identified and promoted more than 2,000 Black-owned businesses, launched transformational programs like Soul Food Wednesdays, the Pitch Black grant competition, and Arizona’s first community-managed BIPOC loan fund; and it has formed key partnerships, including with the State of Black Arizona, Why I Love Where I Live, Community Investment Corporation, Growth Partners Arizona, Groundswell Capital, Startup Tucson, Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, African American Legacy Fund, and Local First Arizona; and
WHEREAS, Blax Friday continues to serve as a statewide model for economic equity, cultural celebrations, and grassroots entrepreneurship,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Pima County Board of Supervisors hereby proclaims Friday, June 6, 2025, to be:
“THE 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF BLAX FRIDAY”
and honors Ashley La Russa and the Blax Friday community for five years of visionary service, innovation, and commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous Arizona.
Thank you and the Pima County Board of Supervisors.
Thank you , , , and for supporting Blax Friday in person this morning.
Filled with gratitude and joy!
