GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — An Experience Grand Rapids article is quickly circulating online as a resource for people as they look for ways to support the black community.
“In the last couple of days, we’ve seen it increase to like 20,000 views from 200. People are definitely looking for ways to support black-owned businesses,” Angela Nelson, Experience Grand Rapids Vice President of multicultural business development said.
This, Nelson says, part of a growing movement to support a community that is hurting.
“We’re experiencing trauma. If I had to just put it quite frank. The world is dealing with the murder of George Floyd, but before George Floyd, there were other deaths in the black community that dealt directly with police relations. I think collectively as a black community, we’re saying enough is enough,” Nelson said.
Owner of The Candied Yam in Grand Rapids Jessica Ann Tyson says it's nice to be thought of now, but hopes in the future those thoughts won't fade.
“You know, it’s nice to be thought of. When there’s situations that people want to feel good about doing. But it’s even nicer to be thought of…all year long.” The Candied Yam owner Jessica Ann Tyson said.
She says she's noticed new faces coming in to her restaurant the last few days.
“it’s just feels nice to be a space where we can feed our people delicious southern cuisine, and it doesn’t matter what they look like,” Tyson said.
Nelson says a comprehensive resource for black-owned businesses can be found here.
