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Recent events have galvanized America’s attention around the need to strengthen relationships to overcome injustice and promote equality, including economic opportunity. Many are asking, "What can I do to help in a meaningful way?"
One simple and important step we can take is to support Black- and minority-owned businesses in our area, of which there are many. They are easily found online and through the Utah Black Chamber, providing everything from professional services, retail, dining and other commercial offerings. Here are a handful of businesses you can support today.
Entrepreneurable
This 501(c)3 nonprofit employs volunteer teachers, students, small business owners, college students, and community leaders to teach children how to be socially responsible, successful entrepreneurs. The curriculum is an 8-class program that includes lessons on marketing, communication, research, and more.
The program is $79 per child and is currently being held via webinar. Contact Entreprenuerable to find out how to get involved with teaching classes, organizing events or being a program coordinator.
Safari Beauty Supply and Braids
For all your dreadlock, braid and beauty needs, visit the Safari Beauty Supply. The store offers a wide variety of hair treatments and beauty supplies as well as braiding services. Customers post glowing reviews about the high-quality, real African braids, professionalism and high level of customer service.
Safari Beauty Supply is currently open Wednesday, Thursday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Friday, Saturday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Horn of Africa
Whether Somali and East African dishes are your favorite foods or you’re looking to try something new, Horn of Africa won’t disappoint. This restaurant serves traditional Somali fare, including Kati-Kati, spaghetti with goat meat, Somali rice and meat plates, jabaati, anjeero and samusas. Discover a new favorite dish every time you visit.
Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
Miss Essie’s BBQ
If you’re looking for the taste of mouth-watering authentic BBQ sauce and home-cooked meals, look no further than Miss Essie’s BBQ.
Started in 2003 and located in nearby Murray, Miss Essie’s offers catering services for family gatherings, celebrations, corporate events, and more. The menu includes award-winning smoked meats like ribs, tri-tip steak, smoked beef brisket and pulled pork, along with hot side dishes, breads, salads and desserts.
Additionally, Miss Essie’s offers catering options for your next corporate or family event, and can provide decorations, floral arrangements and rental equipment. Call 801-262-3616 for a free tasting.
Salt Lake Capoeira
Capoeira: a 500-year-old dance-like fighting technique that started as a way for enslaved Africans in Brazil to learn to fight while disguising their maneuvers as a dance. Today, capoeira is used as a physical activity that helps people improve their physical and mental health.
"We offer classes for kids through adults of all levels," says Mestre Jamaika on Salt Lake Capoeira’s website. "Classes focus on all aspects of capoeira: strength, flexibility, movement, endurance, coordination, vocal and instrumental skills, cultural awareness, confidence, teamwork and community."
Your first class is free. Classes during COVID-19 are being held at Sugarhouse Park and on Zoom.
Flexx Cuts
Customers of Flexx Cuts rave about the quality of the hair cuts at this barbershop. The barbers are known for their talent in Southern level fade and cuts as well as for providing a friendly environment for everyone who visits.
The shop’s hours are currently listed as Tuesday – Friday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Chai’s Barber Shop
Another popular Black-owned barbershop is Chai’s Barber Shop, open for appointments and walk-ins. Chai is known for his classic approach with straight razors and shears, with more than 20 years of experience mastering the art of barbering. The motto emblazoned on his door shares his dedication to his craft: "Honest work, square dealings."
Chai’s hours are listed as Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
In Motion Dance Studio
It’s no secret that dance is a big part of Utah’s culture; little girls are brought up to plié and stretch before they construct their first sentence. Whether you want your child to learn a jazz two-step or a contemporary high kick, they can learn it all at In Motion Dance Studio.
Located in Draper, this studio teaches kids of all ages—even the grown-up variety. For a full list of available classes, visit their website.
For a list of Black-owned businesses in Utah, visit utahblackchamber.com.
