In The News

Buy Black New Bedford hosts holiday market

December 03, 2023

New Bedford, M.A (WJAR) — A holiday shop-till-you-drop mentality was strongly encouraged at Saturdays 3rd annual Black In Business: Holiday Vendor Market.

Local black owned businesses were on display for all to browse and purchase gifts, either for themselves or loved ones.

Those that headed to the New Bedford Whaling Museum were treated to more than just vendors; Joaquin Santos & Friends treated market goers to live music.

Read the full article here: https://turnto10.com/news/local/buy-black-new-bedford-hosts-holiday-market-local-vendors-buy-goods-shopping-whaling-museum

Buy Black NB to highlight youth vendors at AHA! Night on July 13

July 12, 2023

NEW BEDFORD — Downtown will be all about the kids this week as Buy Black NB returns to host its second Dream Makers Market, an event to showcase youth entrepreneurs. The vendor market featuring children and teens is part of the Kids Rule theme of July’s AHA! Night which will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 13, at Custom House Square, 21 Barker’s Lane.

“This year we’re hosting a space devoted to uplifting 20 local, talented, young creatives,” Buy Black NB Founder and Director Justina Perry said in a press release. “Our partner organizations for this year’s market are Our Sisters’ School and Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Bedford. E For All Southcoast is back to do what they do exceptionally well in offering business training while First Citizens Federal Credit Union offers an interactive financial workshop to our vendors.”

Read the full article here: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/entertainment/2023/07/12/dream-makers-market-slated-for-july-13-in-new-bedford-highlights-young-entrepreneurs/70401204007/

Support Young Entrepreneurs at New Bedford’s Dream Makers’ Market

July 12, 2023

Buy Black NB is bringing back their Dream Makers' Market in support of local children and teens this summer.

It's a chance for young makers and entrepreneurs to display and sell their crafts and for the local community to support these young creative minds.

And the event is free to attend.

While most of us have attended local vendor markets where business have booths and displays, the Dream Makers' Market features only youth vendors selling crafts, artwork, jewelry and more.

The free event comes to Custom House Square in Downtown New Bedford on Thursday July 13 from 5 P.M. - 8 P.M. and will feature 20 local, young and talented makers.

It's part of the Kids Rule AHA! Night that itself features live music and the Art Mobile offered by the New Bedford Art Museum.

Read the full article here: https://fun107.com/support-young-entrepreneurs-at-new-bedfords-dream-makers-market/

BUY BLACK NEW BEDFORD TO HOST EVENT FEATURING CHILDREN VENDORS

July 08, 2023

Buy Black New Bedford is hosting its second annual Dream Makers Market on July 13, 2023, featuring all children and teen vendors. The event, according to founder and director Justina Perry is “a signature vendor market featuring all children and teen vendors.” The aim of the event is to encourage Black children and teenagers to participate and thrive in a global marketplace. Jonathan Felix, Assistant to the Executive Director at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater New Bedford describes the aims of the event in a press release: “America is a mixed market/capitalist economy, but few children are offered the opportunity to learn and apply market principles at home or in school. Many become playthings of powerful economic forces we do not understand as we were never taught. The Dream Makers Market provides a unique learning opportunity for children to dream, strategize, market, network, and learn basic principles to thrive in a global competitive marketplace which America still leads…In my 30 years of experience in education, this is the first time I’ve encountered something like this.”

According to Herald News, Buy Black New Bedford was birthed in 2020 as a free community platform dedicated to discovering highlighting, and promoting Black-owned businesses within the South Coast region of Massachusets. The group hosts year-round events featuring hand-selected, diverse groups of vendors and often works in concert with local businesses and organizations like the New Bedford Boys and Girls Club, First Citizens Federal Credit Union, and Perry’s Oshun Physical Therapy and Pelvic Health. Perry describes this year’s focus in a statement provided to Herald News. “This year we’re hosting a space devoted to uplifting 20 local, talented, young creatives…Our partner organizations for this year’s market are Our Sisters’ School and Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Bedford. E For All Southcoast is back to do what they do exceptionally well in offering business training while First Citizens Federal Credit Union offers an interactive financial workshop to our vendors.”

Read the full article here: https://www.blackenterprise.com/buy-black-new-bedford-event-children-vendors/

Buy Black NB to hold 3rd annual Juneteenth market at Rotch-Jones-Duff House

June 10, 2023

NEW BEDFORD — The third annual Juneteenth vendor market hosted by Buy Black NB will be held on Saturday, June 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House, 396 County St.

“Thanks to a grant from NB Creative we are able to expand on our event and even add a live band this year, Joaquin Santos & Friends,” Justina Perry, founder and director of Buy Black NB, said in a press release. “What people can expect is lots of handmade and local goods for shopping with some returning and some new vendors, live music, food trucks and more of what our guests tell us they love. We create a space highlighting Black culture, Black entrepreneurship, Black leadership. It is stunning and makes me really proud to see.”

Buy Black NB is a free community platform established in 2020. As part of its dedication to discovering, highlighting and promoting Black-owned businesses in the SouthCoast, Buy Black NB hosts year-round events with a hand-selected, diverse group of local vendors offering you an opportunity to find your next favorite product.

Read the full article here: https://www.heraldnews.com/story/entertainment/local/2023/06/10/buy-black-nb-juneteenth-market-at-rotch-jones-duff-house/70293878007/

Juneteenth vendor market to return to New Bedford

May 30, 2023

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) — The community can honor Juneteenth at the third annual Buy Black NB vendor market.

The market will be held on Saturday, June 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum in New Bedford.

“What people can expect is lots of handmade and local goods for shopping with some returning and some new vendors, live music, food trucks and more of what our guests tell us they love,” said Justina Perry, founder and director of Buy Black NB. “We create a space highlighting Black culture, Black entrepreneurship, Black leadership. It is stunning and makes me really proud to see.”

Read the full article here: https://www.abc6.com/juneteenth-vendor-market-to-return-to-new-bedford/

Buy Black NB to hold 3rd annual Juneteenth market at Rotch-Jones-Duff House

June 10, 2023

NEW BEDFORD — The third annual Juneteenth vendor market hosted by Buy Black NB will be held on Saturday, June 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House, 396 County St.  

“Thanks to a grant from NB Creative we are able to expand on our event and even add a live band this year, Joaquin Santos & Friends,” Justina Perry, founder and director of Buy Black NB, said in a press release. “What people can expect is lots of handmade and local goods for shopping with some returning and some new vendors, live music, food trucks and more of what our guests tell us they love. We create a space highlighting Black culture, Black entrepreneurship, Black leadership. It is stunning and makes me really proud to see.”

Buy Black NB is a free community platform established in 2020. As part of its dedication to discovering, highlighting and promoting Black-owned businesses in the SouthCoast, Buy Black NB hosts year-round events with a hand-selected, diverse group of local vendors offering you an opportunity to find your next favorite product.

"The way we are honoring Juneteenth as we have for the past three years is with a joyous community gathering," Perry said. "The directory is still at the heart of what we do. We’ll have printed copies available at the Juneteenth vendor market. We’ve discovered over 250 Black-led organizations and Black-owned businesses, offering free promotions with an economic impact that has benefited so many families. It has become the definitive list of Black SouthCoast.”

Read the full article here: https://www.heraldnews.com/story/entertainment/local/2023/06/10/buy-black-nb-juneteenth-market-at-rotch-jones-duff-house/70293878007/

Juneteenth vendor market to return to New Bedford

May 30, 2023

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) — The community can honor Juneteenth at the third annual Buy Black NB vendor market.

The market will be held on Saturday, June 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum in New Bedford

“What people can expect is lots of handmade and local goods for shopping with some returning and some new vendors, live music, food trucks and more of what our guests tell us they love,” said Justina Perry, founder and director of Buy Black NB. “We create a space highlighting Black culture, Black entrepreneurship, Black leadership. It is stunning and makes me really proud to see.”

Those interested can reserve a spot in advance. People are asked not to bring their dogs.

So far, 22 vendors and three food trucks have signed up to sell their products in correlation with the holiday.

Buy Black NB serves Black-owned businesses across the South Coast of Massachusetts. It was first created in June 2020.

Read the full article here: https://www.abc6.com/juneteenth-vendor-market-to-return-to-new-bedford/

New Bedford’s Buy Black NB Putting On Black Excellence Gala [TOWNSQUARE SUNDAY]

April 30, 2023

The online website Buy Black NB has grown by leaps and bounds over the past three years. Now the site's founder is celebrating its success by holding the Black Excellence Gala at the New Bedford Whaling Museum on May 6 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Buy Black NB founder Justina Perry joined Townsquare Sunday this week to discuss the online directory of Black and minority-owned businesses and the upcoming gala, which is a fundraising event for her non-profit.

"Buy Black NB started as an online platform, raising awareness about local Black-owned businesses throughout the SouthCoast," Perry said. "Our mission is to empower the local black business community."

Perry said that since that time, the online platform has grown and Buy Black NB has put together several public events at places like the Rotch-Jones Duff House and AHA Night in Downtown New Bedford, attracting hundreds of people. Perry believes what Buy Black NB has accomplished in its first three years is worthy of celebration.=

Read the full article here: https://wbsm.com/new-bedford-black-excellence-gala-buy-black-nb/

Buy Black NB to host New Bedford’s Inaugural Black Excellence Gala

April 28, 2023

Buy Black NB is hosting the inaugural Black Excellence Gala from 6-10 p.m., Saturday, May 6 in the Harbor View Gallery of the New Bedford Whaling Museum. The evening has been organized to spread awareness and raise funds for Buy Black NB operations and programs.

“Celebrating Black Excellence is centering Blackness and creating spaces of belonging for our community to reconnect to joy," said Founder and Director of Buy Black NB, Justina Perry. “After hosting dozens of free, public vendor markets, networking initiatives, and educational programs, creating a gala is the next step in sustaining our organization.”

Guests will enjoy an elegant evening complete with food, dancing, networking, and an auction.

Read the full article here: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/entertainment/2023/04/28/inaugural-black-excellence-gala-slated-for-may-6/70150197007/

IN-FOCUS ARTICLE: Justina Perry’s Buy Black NB

April 12, 2023

The NB in its name stands for New Bedford, but Justina Perry has made it Buy Black NB’s mission to support black-owned businesses all around the South Coast, with member businesses spanning Swansea in the west and Wareham in the east and points in between, with a majority of businesses based in New Bedford.

Perry started Buy Black NB in 2020 as a directory of black-owned businesses. She says the idea was “to highlight the people, organizations, and products that inspire us and serve our community.” Creative enterprises represent 20 percent of the 250 black-led organizations and black-owned businesses in Buy Black NB’s directory.

“We have everything from party decorators, social media influencers, artists, and illustrators; to crafters like gift baskets, stationary, musicians, DJs, photo, and video. Many of them we’ve hosted during our events for pop-ups or for networking. And others we have not had the opportunity to connect with, but we still offer support as far as listing each business [in Buy Black NB’s directory] so that customers can discover them.”

Starting in 2021 with its Juneteenth vendor market, Buy Black NB has held pop-ups around New Bedford. Perry said, “One thing that was a turning point in our development was when we were awarded our first grant, a Wicked Cool Places grant through New Bedford Creative. Since we were born during the pandemic, we have been an online platform. That [grant] allowed us to kind of come off the screen.”

Read the full article here: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/lifestyle/features/2023/03/07/examples-of-black-excellence-in-new-bedford-ahead-of-buyblacknb-gala/69939290007/

Defining 'Black Excellence' in New Bedford: What is it and where can you find it?

Mar 7, 2023

NEW BEDFORD — The term "Black Excellence" has become a common phrase within the Black community recently, more so that BuyBlackNB’s inaugural gala is centered around highlighting the city for its strength regarding this specific phrase.

But what is Black Excellence?

“Black Excellence to me represents the empowerment of successful Black individuals and a community,” said Britney Ganeto, owner of New B Cleaning and volunteer coordinator for BuyBlackNB. 

Ganeto said it reminds her of the Harlem Renaissance, a moment in time where folks were just on a rise by working together within the community to build the Black community to become successful.

“To me, Black Excellence shines a spotlight on the successes of the Black community,” said Samia Walker, executive director of EforAll. “Black Excellence is not a specific person or thing, it's a celebration of our culture. We were born Excellent, we are highlighting each other's Excellence and we are inspiring Exceptional Legacies.”

Read the full article here: https://theartistsindex.com/in-focus-article-justina-perrys-buy-black-nb/?fbclid=IwAR2LAf9VLlXixHEyPiUsRAr2U2SSthaRHmi4yMAcXa-DLhuWSDgIWP6YuEI&mibextid=kdkkhi

Buy Black NB hosts holiday market

Dec 5, 2022

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WJAR) — Black-owned businesses set up shop for a holiday vendor market at the New Bedford Whaling Museum on Saturday.

BuyBlack NB partnered with the city to showcase hand-selected products from locally owned businesses.

Justina Perry, founder and director of the organization, said the market had a variety of products, including apparel and fragrance.

The market featured live music, performances, and a surprise guest: Santa Clause.

Since 2020, Buy Black NB has connected consumers with over 200 local Black-owned businesses through dozens of vendor market events.

Read the full article here: https://turnto10.com/news/local/buy-black-nb-new-bedford-hosts-vendor-market-in-time-for-holiday-season-gifts-local-black-owned-businesses-december-3-2022

Buy Black NB hosts holiday market

Dec 5, 2022

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — Buy Black NB hosted a holiday market Saturday, featuring a diverse group of vendors from around Southern Massachusetts. 

The Founder and Director of Buy Black NB, Justina Perry, says 17 Black owned businesses were included in the event, which took place inside the New Bedford Whaling Museum. 

“For so many businesses this is where they make the bulk of their income…so these vendors are super grateful for every customer they connect with,” said Perry. 

People shopping at the event were also treated to live music and a visit from Black Santa. 

“We have Black Santa here for free kids’ photos…I think that true representation is important, I know a lot of kids come in and are really excited to see him,” said Perry. 

Perry also says Buy Black NB will be hosting a professional networking event on Wednesday, December 7th. 

Read the full article here: https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/se-mass/buy-black-nb-hosts-holiday-market/

BuyBlackNB celebrates Juneteenth

July 2022

When the BuyBlackNB Juneteenth pop-up market returns to the Rotch Jones Duff House and Garden in New Bedford on Juneteenth (Sunday, June 19), it will represent something more than an opportunity to discover local Black-owned small businesses, individual entrepreneurs, and craftspeople.

It will also reflect the stunning achievement that is BuyBlackNB itself. BuyBlackNB began its journey as an online platform in 2020 highlighting the area’s many Black-owned small business and creative endeavors. It was launched as a website that featured over 75 Black-owned businesses: buyblacknb.com.

Since then, BuyBlackNB has expanded into a physical presence by hosting a series of pop-up markets in New Bedford featuring the names on its website. The largest of these were the Juneteenth market last year in 2021, also at the Rotch Jones Duff House. Clearly, something clicked away from the computer mousepad, as BuyBlackNB became a brand in and of itself and a huge success.

It was so successful that the concept was even moved to Fall River this past spring for a Spindle City pop-up event. It, too, proved to be a hit.

Taking action

BuyBlackNB was founded by life-long New Bedford resident Justina Perry in 2020. She was, she says, galvanized into action after what she saw happening to Black bodies around the nation – crystalized by the muder of George Floyd.

Upon launching BuyBlackNB, Justina Perry stated, “In supporting local Black-owned businesses, we are working to close the racial wealth gap, strengthen our local economies, foster job creation, and celebrate Black culture.”

BuyBlackNB.com offered shoppers an interactive map to help patrons discover the businesses it listed in its directory, and it has continued to add new ones since 2020. There was no fee for these listings, as Justina explained, “The work is a labor of love for people, places, and products that make up the New Bedford community.”

Read the full article here: https://issuu.com/coastalmags/docs/sci-june22/s/15850961

Dream Makers Market is serious business for these SouthCoast youth

July 22, 2022

NEW BEDFORD — It's never too soon to start thinking about the future, and 14 school-age entrepreneurs from the SouthCoast — ranging from 9 to 17 years old — have been doing a lot of that this summer, especially with the real-world money-making opportunity extended to them at the first Dream Makers Market. 

Touted by organizers as a new way to offer local youth artisans a chance to gain real-world entrepreneurial experience running their own vendors' table, the event — presented by Buy Black NB in collaboration with Our Sisters' School, Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts and EforAll South Coast — debuted at Wing's Court in New Bedford during the annual Kids Rule AHA! Night, and featured 14 vendors from area schools selling goods like original art prints, handmade jewelry, self-care products and more, as the group of rising fourth- to 12th-graders learned the ropes of doing business.

"Some of our students cleared almost $400," said Tobey Eugenio, creativity/STEAM director at Our Sisters' School in New Bedford. "Not bad for three hours, especially considering none of our students had ever done this before."

"I'm really happy with how it went," said Justina Perry, founder and director of Buy Black NB. "It was a pretty excellent turnout."

With help from Buy Black NB's grant funding from New Bedford Creative, Perry said the young vendors were provided with resources to help jumpstart their ideas as they learned about what it would take to make them reality.

Read the full article here: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/business/2022/07/22/buy-black-nb-encourages-young-new-bedford-youth-business-owners-dream-makers-market/10068033002/

New Bedford and America look toward holidays of the future

June 21, 2022

Juneteenth and Buy Black NB seem like a natural combination.

The official federal holiday and the city’s new Black business fair were born in the same year, and Buy Black has quickly made its mark as an uplifting New Bedford-centric celebration of young African-American entrepreneurs.

Coming on Juneteenth weekend, Buy Black also marks New Bedford’s coming of age for a new set of national holidays: Juneteenth and Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

“We wanted it to be a tradition and something that is a respected tradition, and something to honor Juneteenth,” said Justina Perry, Buy Black’s founder and director, about the holiday connection.

The vendor market graces the elegant grounds of the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and in just two years it has grown from 18 vendors to more than 25. Even the raw November-like weather of this year’s June 19 did not prevent more than 600 people from making their way to the market, where they were regaled by the jazz saxophone sounds of Manny Escobar and the Cape Verdean percussion band Batukada.

I myself was able to score a Harriet Tubman biography and a cool candle wick-cutter while at the market.

Read the full podcast here: https://newbedfordlight.org/new-bedford-and-america-look-toward-holidays-of-the-future/

2nd annual ‘Buy Black NB’ event held in New Bedford

Jun 19, 2022

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — In celebration of Juneteenth, the 2nd annual “Buy Black NB” event was held in New Bedford on Sunday.

The event featured over 25 vendors from Black-owned businesses in South Coast Massachusetts. There were also children’s activities, live music and other free entertainment.

“This is a celebration of Black culture, of freedom,” said Justina Perry, Founder & Director of Buy Black NB. “It’s a free public event so we’re inviting families and local residents and people who want to honor and commemorate Juneteenth to come on down.”

Buy Black NB hosts year-round events with a hand-selected, diverse group of local vendors offering a variety of products.

Read the full podcast here: https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/se-mass/2nd-annual-buy-black-nb-event-held-in-new-bedford/

'This is a phenomenal room of bosses': BuyBlackNB honored these 35 Black business leaders.

June 17, 2022

NEW BEDFORD — This is the second year Juneteenth is recognized as a federal holiday, and BuyBlackNB is ready to celebrate the city's Black business owners again on Sunday.

“Part of our mission is to circulate money in the community,” said Justina Perry, founder of BuyBlackNB. “We do this by empowering ownership, collaboration and community building."

On June 19, the Rotch-Jones-Duff House is welcoming the return of BuyBlackNB's Juneteenth vendors pop-up event. Executive Director Dawn Salerno said she has offered to make it an annual event at the house that will run indefinitely.

'The directory was a start': BuyBlackNB reflects on inspiring 2021, and plans for 2022

"Having that event on the ground, on Juneteenth specifically, it may not have been what it looked like here in the past, but it's definitely a commitment to our future," Salerno said.

"And everything we hope to be in this community as a vital part where people of all kinds and ages gather all the time."

This free, public event will have something for the entire family. All are invited to shop a curated selection of local Black-owned businesses while enjoying community building on Juneteenth Independence Day.

Freedom Day: Where you can celebrate Juneteenth this year around New England

There will be children’s activities, live music, raffle prizes and for dads: Father’s Day massages.

Read the full podcast here: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/business/2022/06/17/new-bedford-buyblacknb-highlights-more-black-owners-juneteenth/7625854001/

A Busy Summer for New Bedford’s Buy Black NB [TOWNSQUARE SUNDAY]

June 05, 2022

Justina Perry is certainly making her mark in New Bedford's African American and Cape Verdean communities.

Perry is the founder of Buy Black NB, an online directory of minority-owned businesses in our region.

Perry called in to Townsquare Sunday this week, and said her website now has more than 200 listings of Black and Brown-owned businesses in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Perry said the past two years have been a wonderful experience.

"I had very little business knowledge when I started, but I've met a lot of people and I'm learning a lot through this process," she said.

Over the next two months, Buy Black NB will sponsor three vendor markets, giving those businesses the opportunity to introduce their products to consumers who otherwise might not know about them.

Perry said the first mini-market this month will take place at 12 noon on Saturday, June 11 on the PavilIon at West Beach, as part of the 20mi2 Festival. Perry said 10 vendors will be on hand, plus entertainment and much more.

The second vendor market will take place on Sunday, June 19, the Juneteenth holiday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rotch Jones Duff House off County Street. There will be live entertainment, children's activities, raffles, and free admission.

The third mini-market will happen on Thursday, July 14 as part of AHA Night in Downtown New Bedford.

"The theme for the night is 'Kids Rule,' and we've been wanting to do a a youth vendor market for awhile," Perry said. "We're hosting youth vendors from ages 12 to 18 and they will all have a product to sell."

She said the night will focus on family fun, music, and shopping.

Read the full podcast here: https://wbsm.com/new-bedford-buy-black-nb-summer-2022/

Guiding Teens Through Mental Health Struggles, and "Buy Black NB" Uplifts Black-Owned Businesses

June 04, 2022

Children and teens, now more than ever, are reaching out to get help with their mental health struggles - depression, anxiety, and body image problems, among many others. Nichole talks with Dr. Fatima Watt, Director of Behavioral Health Services at Franciscan Children's, about what teens need from adults in their lives as they try to navigate a mental health crisis. They also talk about the effects of social media on Generation Z, and why younger people are more open about their mental health struggles. Buy Black NB, which connects residents to Black-owned businesses, is staying busy this summer! Founder Justina Perry returns to the show to talk about their upcoming Juneteenth event in New Bedford. She also has an update on the state of small business ownership on the South Coast, and how business owners are recovering after the height of COVID-19.

Read the full podcast here: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1248-new-england-weekend-51705906/episode/guiding-teens-through-mental-health-struggles-97899942/

Feast, festival or parade. It’s time to party again!

The pandemic robbed us of our summer events in ’20 and ’21, but they’re all back this year

May 26, 2022

That’s because for the last two years, many of the city’s biggest events were canceled due to the pandemic. They’re all back, joined by a brand-new three-day festival bringing together more than 30 local organizations.

“I think we’re all really excited about the summer,” said Lee Heald, program director at AHA! New Bedford. “I think it’s going to be a great experience for us to all be out and together again, outdoors and on the streets.”

Read the full article here: https://newbedfordlight.org/feast-festival-or-parade-its-time-to-party-again/

Busola Awobode '22: Seizing opportunities

Senior English major and philosophy minor in the College of Arts and Sciences

May 15, 2022

Describe UMass Dartmouth in one word.

Entertaining

What drew you to your major?

Shortly before applying to UMass Dartmouth, I decided to switch my career goals from law to English because I decided I wanted to work in publishing and eventually publish my own novel. Coming to UMassD, I realized how diverse my field was and the choices I had even within publishing. While my overarching goals remain the same, I have found interests in public relations, marketing, digital communication, and more, which I believe not only better enriches me as a communicator, but positions me as an asset in my chosen field.

How has UMass Dartmouth prepared you for life after graduation?

I have learned how to relate with people and work with them regardless of our differences or relationship. Getting involved on campus has also made me a more confident and assertive person, as well as an adept leader who understands the responsibilities that come with leading. I have been able to juggle multiple responsibilities and maintain boundaries necessary for my success.

What’s your favorite place at UMass Dartmouth?

My favorite place on campus has to be the Fredrick Douglass Unity House because it represents to me what UMass Dartmouth is. At any given time it is lively with club meetings, events, or just students interacting with one another. It is a hub of knowledge where you can find information on almost anything happening on campus. The staff are welcoming to students and genuinely want to work with them.

What was your favorite class at UMassD?

While I have taken many interesting classes over the course of my stay at UMass Dartmouth, perhaps my favorite has been photography. I always wanted to take a photography class and develop my skillset with a camera. UMassD provided me the opportunity to pursue all my interests while completing my requirements even when they were not directly aligned with my major.

What advice would you give to younger UMassD students?

Seek out opportunities and take them. There are a plethora of opportunities available to you at UMassD, and a place for everyone regardless of your interests or personality. Take the initiative and find the places and opportunities for you. No matter where you go, there will always be people that are happy to welcome you.

Read the full article here: https://www.umassd.edu/feature-stories/2022/busola-awobode.html

BuyBlackNB announces Pop-up Vendor Market in Fall River

April 06, 2022

Back by popular demand, BuyBlackNB is hosting an outdoor event on April 16th in Fall River with a hand-selected, diverse group of local vendors offering you an opportunity to find your next favorite product! Coming off of a wildly successful first market season, Buy Black NB will host an event in Fall River to offer a day to enjoy art, food, clothing, children’s entertainment and handmade goods.

Black businesses have suffered huge losses during the COVID-19 quarantine. So BuyBlackNB is creating a safe space to support them and allow you to #BuyBlack. Shop a curated selection of local Black-owned businesses while enjoying music, giveaways, networking, and community building.

For children there will be free Easter Bunny Photos by Ever After Storybook Entertainment. There will be live entertainment and free admission with advance registration here.

“There was something so special about our first market season in 2021,” said Justina Perry of New Bedford, who has been a catalyst in bringing regional exposure to Black-owned businesses since starting the initiative in June 2020. “April 16th kicks off a full schedule of events planned for 2022.”

Read the full article here: https://fallriverreporter.com/buyblacknb-announces-pop-up-vendor-market-in-fall-river-a/

Buy Black NB hosting market in Fall River to support Black-owned local businesses

March 18, 2022

FALL RIVER — After much success in 2021, Buy Black NB is holding its first pop-up vendor market of 2022 right here in the city.

Buy Black NB is a New Bedford-based community resource supporting Black-owned businesses across the SouthCoast. Formed during the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, Buy Black NB has put together a directory of more than 200 Black-owned businesses in the SouthCoast, and that number continues to grow. They hosted nine vendor pop-ups in 2021, and now those markets are expanding.

Starting with Fall River.

On Saturday, April 16, there will be a pop-up vendor market on Old Second Street, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a diverse group of local vendors offering handmade goods, art, and various forms of entertainment.

“There was something so special about our first market season in 2021,” Buy Black NB founder Justina Perry, of New Bedford, said in a press release. “April 16 kicks off a full schedule of events planned for 2022.”

As the market is taking place during Easter time, there will be Easter Bunny photos with Ever After Storybook Entertainment.

“It’s Easter weekend so we’ll have vendors with products like Easter baskets, desserts and spring apparel looking to build relationships with new customers,” said Perry. “We are looking forward to hosting this event in Fall River!”

Read the full article here: https://www.heraldnews.com/story/news/local/2022/03/18/buy-black-nb-market-fall-river-april-16-black-owned-local-business/7081233001/

New Bedford arts groups making connections

Historical society seeks to promote city’s abolitionist history

February 07, 2022

THE NEW BEDFORD Historical Society, whose focus is the history of people of color in the South Coast city, appears poised for a takeoff. 

The society is developing a park and a historic district centered around the abolitionist movement in New Bedford and the city’s role in the Underground Railroad. “Between 1790 and the Civil War, New Bedford became known not only as the whaling capital of the world, but also as one of the greatest asylums for fugitive former slaves,” said the proposal for the historic district designation. 

Perhaps the most famous former slave was Frederick Bailey, who came to New Bedford in 1838 and stayed initially with Black merchants Nathan and Polly Johnson at their home on Seventh Street. It was Nathan Johnson who convinced Bailey to change his last name to Douglass; Frederick Douglass went on to become the most prominent abolitionist lecturer in the country, winning acclaim nationally and internationally.

Lee Blake, the president of the historical society, which is located in the former Johnson home, is grappling with how best to promote the city’s rich abolitionist history. “How do we market a five-block district where many of the houses were the houses of abolitionists?” she said on The Codcast. “How do we market that for a contemporary audience? What’s important about that?”

It’s a question Blake hopes to answer with the help of a $280,000 grant the Barr Foundation awarded to her organization and seven other arts and cultural groups in New Bedford for the purpose of building stronger connections with the local community. The other seven arts organizations are 3rd EyE Youth Empowerment, Buy Black New Bedford, New Bedford Art Museum/ArtWorks!, DATMA (Massachusetts Design Art & Technology Institute), New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, Cape Verdean Association in New Bedford, and the Co-Creative Center.

Jasmyn Baird, a senior fellow at New Bedford Creative, a city organization established to promote the arts, said the grant will allow the groups to participate in a training program called Creating Connection that is designed to build greater awareness of the arts in the community and stronger links between the arts groups and the people they serve.

The grant is another sign of New Bedford’s aggressive pursuit of art and cultural connections. The city already promotes AHA! (for Art, History, and Architecture), a program started in 1999 that features citywide cultural events on the second Thursday of every month. Mayor Jon Mitchell is also proposing to steer the largest chunk of the city’s American Rescue Plan Act funds — $18 million of the total $82 million — to arts, culture, hospitality, and tourism. 

“That cultural sector draws a lot of folks in,” Mitchell said recently. “This is a set of sectors that we think could generate a pretty good return on investment.” 

Blake said collaboration between arts groups and city government and among arts groups is key. “We’re a small community,” she said. “We don’t have a lot of corporate money, for instance, so leveraging each other’s skills becomes really important in order to develop what we have here.”  

Planning is in the early stages for the Creating Connection initiative, but Blake sees a few possibilities for arts groups combining forces. “It’s very possible that the symphony will come and do outdoor music concerts in the [abolition] park,” she said.

She said the New Bedford Art Museum may team up with the city’s library, which over the years has received donated artwork but lacks the space to properly exhibit it. “How do we get the library and the art museum to get together and share their collections?” she asks. “The library doesn’t necessarily have the space to do this, but the art museum does. So right now, they’re looking at different ways of sharing their expertise. The art museum can put together the exhibit and the library can provide the art.”

Read the full article here: https://commonwealthmagazine.org/arts-and-culture/new-bedford-arts-groups-making-connections/

'When you give, you get back': Black-owned floral shop is thriving on the SouthCoast

February 07, 2022

MARION — In high school, Sharon Monteiro took a career aptitude test and 'Flower Shop Owner' was listed second.

Now, Always in Bloom Flower and Gift Shoppe is celebrating its 13th year in business.

"It has been a lot of hard work; a lot of sweat and tears," Monteiro said. "But, amazing."

As customers enter the shop on this particular day, she knows most of them by name and has a little story about each of them — a past purchase, a connection to the community.

“Hi Stevie" she says. "Are you placing the same Valentine's Day order?"

New plant studio: New Bedford's Kilburn Mill has a cure for winter blues

Monteiro is surrounded by plants and flowers as well as other interesting objects such as a bird feeder, pots, candles, gardening figurines and a church pew that was left behind by her former partner.

There's framed photos of family and friends around the room including her four daughters, Tori, Faith, Ryann and Chelsea.

Her father worked at an antique shop, and in the early '90s, her mother owned a flower shop on Williams Street in downtown New Bedford. "We were waiting for New Bedford to come up... but it never did come up for us," she said.

Read the full article here: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/business/2022/02/07/black-owned-marion-floral-shop-always-bloom-grows-success/6645360001/

New Bedford Creative’s Wicked Cool Places Grants Will Invigorate City’s Art Sector

January 24, 2022

The announcement of the latest round of Wicked Cool Places grant awards is a cause for celebration and appreciation for the critical role of culture in our community, believes Margo Saulnier, New Bedford’s Creative Strategist.

“The range and impact of the newest Wicked Cool Places grant awards is astonishing,” states Saulnier. “These sixteen projects represent a far-reaching slate of place-making and place-keeping projects in the city. Each underscores the profound impact of creativity in our community – and the ability of our ‘cultural ambassadors’ to activate and showcase all of New Bedford.”

Wicked Cool Places (WCP) is the grant program administered by New Bedford Creative, housed at the New Bedford Economic Development Council (NBEDC). Funding is provided by the city of New Bedford’s Arts, Culture and Tourism Fund, with additional support from Bristol County Savings Bank, Mass Cultural Council, and MassDevelopment’s “TDI Creative Cities Initiative.”

This year, a total of $70,000 will be invested in the program’s most diverse round of competitive applications since the program’s inception in 2018. New projects will join returning favorites to offer the City of New Bedford and South Coast a profound range of resident-driven projects and events which will enrich the entire region.

Anthony Sapienza, President of the Board of Directors for the NBEDC, notes that, “Wicked Cool Places awards reflect the strength of New Bedford and the ability of its creative citizens to invigorate not only our economy but our very sense of purpose as a city.”

The WCP awards achieve that by recognizing the broadest possible definition of culture. Grant awards to city cultural ambassadors highlight the role visual art, music, performance, heritage, health, well-being and critical thinking play in our world today. The sixteen projects also mirror the multifaceted potential of all neighborhoods in the City of New Bedford.

This year’s New Bedford Creative Wicked Cool Places awards are:

$50,000 funded by the city of New Bedford’s Arts, Culture and Tourism Fund, with additional support by Bristol County Savings Bank:

– The Community Economic Development Center (CEDC) designed “Patio de Comida” specifically to serve the city’s Latino population. It features foods from Guatemala, El Salvador, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and more at Riverside Park. $5,000 will help it host more food vendors, kids activities and local artists, including Mayan dancers, Marimba players, weavers, and contemporary musicians.

– Massachusetts Design, Art, and Technology Institute (DATMA) has been awarded $4,000 to collaborate with New Bedford High School faculty and students, the Consortium for Research & Robotics, and NORPEL Fisheries to create a three-dimensional (3D) public art mural.

– In June, the Queer Arts Council of New Bedford will use $5,000 to bring back the AHA! Pride Block Party to Custom House Square and the historical 54th Regiment Plaza to continue creating and establishing inclusive queer spaces downtown and avenues for the LGBTQ+ creative community and businesses.

– Continuing into its fifth year, Reggae On West Beach is a truly inclusive, diverse, multigenerational, family-friendly summer series for all walks of life. This event has established the West Beach Pavilion as a summer destination venue and is greatly anticipated – each year – and a $5,000 award will continue this new tradition in the south end.

Read the full article here: https://www.newbedfordguide.com/new-bedford-creatives-wicked-cool-places-grants-will-invigorate-citys-art-sector/2022/01/24

'It definitely takes a village': How this Black-owned boutique found success in New Bedford

January 05, 2022

NEW BEDFORD — For 18 years, Celia's Boutique has seen it all from empty downtown storefronts to the Buy Black movement. The one part that has never changed: the love the mother/daughter co-owners have toward their community. 

“I feel like our customer service at the boutique is concierge level," said Tanya Alves, co-owner to the boutique, who works alongside her mother and namesake of the business, Celia Brito.

“It's definitely a shopping experience. That's what we try to provide," Brito added.

When a customer walks into the boutique, at the corner of Pleasant and Williams streets, someone is standing by ready to offer a warm welcome, help assist with choosing a gift, putting pieces together, bringing items to the dressing room or just offering conversation.

'The directory was a start': BuyBlackNB reflects on inspiring 2021, and big plans for 2022

"We want to get to know who they are," said Brito.

“My mom is a social butterfly," Alves added with a laugh.

Since 2003, Celia's Boutique has been a staple in the downtown New Bedford area when it first opened on Purchase Street in the former Cherry & Webb building. 

"The energy in that building," Alves said." It definitely felt good to be in there.”

The idea to open the boutique came when Brito was working at the Polaroid Corporation when it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and was on the verge of shutting down.

Brito knew she needed a back-up plan.

Read the full article here: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/business/2022/01/05/black-owned-celias-boutique-downtown-new-bedford-ma-thankful-for-buying-black/8979247002/

'The directory was a start': BuyBlackNB reflects on inspiring 2021, and big plans for 2022

December 20, 2021

NEW BEDFORD — In 2021, BuyBlackNB presented nine vendor pop-ups to support Black-owned businesses in the SouthCoast. Formed during the Black Lives Matter protests, the organization has even more impressive goals for 2022.

“The directory was a start," said BuyBlackNB founder Justina Perry, adding she was proud of what the team created from nothing.

In creating the directory, Perry said she discovered more than 150 Black-owned businesses in the SouthCoast and has registered them all on the website.

“Now it has become a movement throughout the community," she added.

“In our platform, we are Black and proud and unapologetic about it. That’s what we are highlighting and the community we are starting. We create that sense of pride about Blackness."

In the wake of the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, people showered Black-owned businesses with support. The sudden attention on inequality in America spun numerous online lists spotlighting Black-owned companies for people to support, according to a USAToday article.

Almost as soon as protests kicked off in late May 2020, online sales surged 225% over what was considered average for Black-owned businesses in a 2019 report.

However, singling out Black-owned businesses has also been met with criticism. Perry said she has received numerous negative comments from locals. 

“There has been misconception and misunderstanding on why this needs to be in existence," Perry said. “That’s why this is so important, that misunderstanding alone is one of the reasons we need to do this.

“There is a history of systemic oppression of Black people, because there is a huge wealth gap, and there’s an economic opportunity that is created from organizing in this way with the Black community."

Perry said BuyBlackNB is about working to close the racial wealth gap, strengthen local economies, foster job creation and celebrate Black culture. “This also creates a lot of positive imagery for Black youth and their racial identity," she added.

Read the full article and learn about 2022 plans here: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/business/2021/12/20/buyblack-new-bedford-support-black-owned-businesses-continue-2022/8894925002/

'It’s sort of a movement and trend': SouthCoast retailers count on Small Business Saturday

November 23, 2021

FALL RIVER — Small Business Saturday is anything but small potatoes to local businesses.

“It’s one of our top ten busiest days of the season,” said Bob Mullen, owner of Mullen Brothers Jewelers on Swansea Mall Drive in Swansea.

Small Business Saturday was launched by the American Express Company in 2010 to encourage consumers to patronize small and local brick-and-mortar businesses.

It comes one day after Black Friday — the post-Thanksgiving day that large, big box retailers consider to be the start of Christmas holiday shopping season — and two days before Cyber Monday, which emphasizes online sales.

Amex last year reported $120 billion in sales during the first 10 years of Small Business Saturday for independent retailers and restaurants across the country.

The credit card company last year said a survey it had commissioned showed that 2019 was a record year for the single-day promotion with more than $19.5 billion in domestic sales revenue.

Amex also estimates that approximately 67 cents of every dollar spent at local businesses with less than 100 employees stays in their respective communities.

Niche products in New Bedford

Shop U7 is a contemporary sneaker, clothing and fashion accessories shop located on William Street in downtown New Bedford. Brands include Nike, Adidas, Bape and Kith.

“We sell things that are hard to come by — we’re very niche,” said store manager Paulo Duarte.

Duarte said discounts will range from 10 to 25 percent on Small Business Saturday and that there will also be some gift giveaways.

“That whole weekend is slammed,” he said, in describing the appetite of shoppers heading into the holiday shopping season.

Justina Perry launched her Buy Black New Bedford initiative, Buy Black NB for short, in June 2020, as a means of highlighting and promoting Black-owned businesses in the city and SouthCoast region.

“I founded the platform, and I direct it,” said Perry, who works as a physical therapist for Southcoast Health.

She describes Buy Black NB as “a program” of One SouthCoast Chamber, the regional chamber of commerce that has offices in New Bedford and Fall River.  

Perry is putting together a Buy Black NB gift guide for the 2021 holiday shopping season.

The guide, which she said will be posted online in time for Small Business Saturday, so far features 10 local businesses — including a store specializing in skin care products, a commissioned portrait business and a store that sells teeth-whitening products.

Read more: https://www.heraldnews.com/story/business/2021/11/23/businesses-prepare-small-business-saturday-thanksgiving-shoppers-new-bedford-fall-river-westport/8619120002/

Support of BIPOC-led Nonprofits, Leaders, and Leadership Programs Continues Through SouthCoast Community Foundation Funding

November 22, 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA – Brockton-based BAMSI, Coaching4Change out of Taunton, and New Bedford’s Buy Black NB and the Whaling Museum are the latest grant recipients of the SouthCoast Community Foundation Leadership Equity Fund. A total of $50,000 has been awarded for career advancement and leadership programming to increase racial and ethnic diversity within staff and management teams as well as sustain and support Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-led organizations and their leadership.

“We’re thrilled to see these four well-deserving grantees receive awards and are inspired by their commitment and the work they are doing within their organizations and in the community,” stated John Vasconcellos, SouthCoast Community Foundation President and CEO. “Since the launch of the Leadership Equity Fund in June, we have seen an overwhelming response from the community and nonprofits.”

Award distribution includes:

• BAMSI: BIPOC Leadership Path ($14,000.00)

• Buy Black NB: Operations and Administrative Support ($12,000.00)

• Coaching4Change: Support CEO/Co-Founder Marquis Taylor continue student program expansion in South Coast ($14,000.00)

• New Bedford Whaling Museum: Equity in Leadership Program ($10,000.00)

Coaching4Change is dedicated to a more diverse, equitable learning environment by having college students of color mentor, role model, and coach academically middle school students. Grant recipient and Coaching4Change Co-Founder and CEO Marquis Taylor commented, “2020 amplified the importance of racial and social equity.  Between COVID-19 and the racial injustice we all witnessed via social media or tv, we collectively know that equity does not just happen. We must create it. By the SouthCoast Community Foundation creating this Fund, it signals to the region that the Foundation is ready to play a huge role in helping to create opportunities where leaders of color do not feel isolated and ignored. We greatly appreciate receiving the award and the Community Foundation’s support of our work.”

Buy Black NB, an online platform dedicated to highlighting, discovering, and promoting Black-owned businesses in the Southcoast, finds the award funding an operational relief. “The Leadership Equity grant will allow for our continued efforts toward economic empowerment and equity for the Southcoast Black business community,” commented Justina Perry, Founder and Director of Buy Black NB. “This funding will enable Buy Black NB to become more than a one-time initiative and help sustain our operations throughout the next year.”

The Leadership Equity Fund is one of several steps the Community Foundation is taking to address racism. Launched in June 2021, the Fund will support Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-led organizations that historically have been under-resourced and seeks to ensure that BIPOC individuals are given the opportunity and support to lead and influence from positions of power and authority. Grants from the Fund will support and serve two purposes: support for nonprofit organizations working to end racism and run by leaders who identify as BIPOC and the professional development and advancement of employees of nonprofit organizations who identify as BIPOC. Fundraising is ongoing and to date more than $260,000 has been raised.

“We created this grant to address racial disparities and work towards a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive society, supporting and growing BIPOC leaders and organizations in the nonprofit arena,” stated Carl Cruz, the Community Foundation’s Grants Committee Chair. “To ensure we deliver on that promise, we are staying connected to the community, listening, and refining our approach to ensure the funding is going to where it’s most needed and in the most effective manner possible.”

The SouthCoast Community Foundation is a nonprofit serving the communities of Southeastern Massachusetts through philanthropy. The Community Foundation mission is to mobilize philanthropy by matching donors and resources with community needs for the benefit of our region. Since 1995, the organization has distributed over $50 million from more than 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region. For more information, visit www.southcoastcf.org. Click here to donate to the Leadership Equity Fund.

Read more: https://southcoastcf.org/support-of-bipoc-led-nonprofits-leaders-and-leadership-programs-continues-through-southcoast-community-foundation-funding/

Parades, crafts fairs, holiday pops and Santa: Holiday events are under way in New Bedford

November 22, 2021

NEW BEDFORD — Carving the turkey and giving thanks are only a few days away, but then the holiday season kicks into full swing. 

Sure, there are Black Friday deals to hunt down and shopping lists to check off, but for many, the holidays are all about lights, craft fairs, holiday parades and spending time with friends and family. 

Last year, the COVID-19 pandemic derailed virtually all of the holiday happenings that have become a tradition in the SouthCoast, but good news, they're back. Love an old fashioned holiday concert with the classics? Check. Want to bring the kiddies to see Santa? Check. Or maybe it's the glow of the holiday lights? Then hop in the car and head out for dazzling adventure. 

No matter what your taste for the holiday season, there's sure to be an event that will suit you, so turn up the Christmas music, heat up the cocoa, and get into the spirit of the season as you mark your calendar with these holiday events. 

dNB's Holiday Stroll

A fun-filled holiday weekend event for the entire family from noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 4. Downtown New Bedford is festive with seasonal activities. 

Keep an eye out for a silent soapbox Winter Fairy and Santa Claus as you take in the sights of downtown. Antique fire truck rides will be provided by the New Bedford Fire Museum and special programming will be hosted throughout the community, including a BuyBlackNB Mini Market in Bristol Hall, cookie decorating and hot chocolate at the New Bedford Harbor Hotel, live dancers from the New Bedford Performing Arts Center on the Whaling Museum plaza, youth arts and crafts at the New Bedford Art Museum, a well as various sales, pop-up shops, and food and drink offerings.

It all culminates with the tree lighting at City Hall at 5 p.m.

Stay tuned for more updates and details by visiting www.facebook.com/dNBinc.

Read more: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/entertainment/2021/11/22/holiday-events-new-bedford-dartmouth-fairhaven-acushnet/8585487002/

Parade a go, lights aglow and fair fun: Holiday happenings across Greater Fall River

November 19, 2021

FALL RIVER — Christmastime is here.

I know you must be thinking: Wait, we haven't even sliced the Thanksgiving turkey and you're talking about sleigh bells and carving roast beast?

But you've all heard the call. Those unmistakable first few notes of the — like it or not —iconic hit "All I Want for Christmas is You" start to play as Mariah Carey takes over the radio waves beckoning you to get in the holiday spirit.

After Christmas was essentially put on pause last year — with many annual events canceled or altered due to the pandemic — festivities are once again popping up across the SouthCoast, bringing some much-needed and missed yuletide merriment.

Take a stroll through various winter wonderlands, catch a craft fair, see a show, experience some eye-popping light displays, rejoice at the return of a Spindle City Christmas tradition and find out where Santa is headed next.

Here's a look at some upcoming events in Greater Fall River and beyond to help you usher in the holidays.

Have an event you'd like included on this list? Email us at news@heraldnews.com.

dNB's Holiday Stroll (New Bedford)

Where: Downtown New Bedford

When: Saturday, Dec. 4, from noon to 5 p.m.; rain date Dec. 11

The Holiday Stroll is making its way back to the historic cobblestone streets of downtown New Bedford.

Elissa Paquette, owner of Calico on Union Street and president of nonprofit Downtown New Bedford Inc, has enlisted the help of NB Creative, the City of New Bedford and BuyBlackNB to bring this year's event to life and to create an inclusive, friendly environment for all.

After last year's festivities were canceled due to the pandemic, local businesses and a cohort of organizations are excited to spread some holiday cheer once again. Strollers will be met with the sounds of the Seaglass Theater Company Carolers and the Southcoast Brass Band. 

Keep an eye out for a silent soap box Winter Fairy and Santa Claus as you take in the sights of downtown. Antique fire truck rides will be provided by the New Bedford Fire Museum and special programming will be hosted throughout the community, including a BuyBlackNB Mini Market in Bristol Hall, cookie decorating and hot chocolate at the New Bedford Harbor Hotel, live dancers from the New Bedford Performing Arts Center on the Whaling Museum plaza, youth arts and crafts at the New Bedford Art Museum, a well as various sales, pop-up shops, and food and drink offerings.

It all culminates with a tree lighting at City Hall at 5 p.m.

For a full schedule of events and more information, visit downtownnb.org.

Read more: https://www.heraldnews.com/story/entertainment/holiday/2021/11/19/holiday-happenings-fall-river-somerset-swansea-westport-tiverton/8663907002/

BuyBlackNB Pop-up Market Debuts at Dartmouth Mall This Weekend

September 21, 2021

The Dartmouth Mall has partnered with BuyBlackNB to bring 30 regional businesses to the mall to showcase their goods and services in the first Black-Owned Business Market from Friday, September 24 to Sunday, September 26.

The event, which sold out in just a matter of days after being announced, will feature local Black-owned businesses offering fashion, shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, licensed aesthetician, kitchen items, gifts, stationery and cards, financial planning, health and wellness items, photography, home services and goods, and many more.

Beth Zager is the Marketing Director for the Dartmouth Mall. She states that shoppers will be able to browse, sample, buy, and connect during the weekend-long showcase Friday through Sunday.

“We are pleased to offer this market, which we hope will become a regular event,” said Zager. “We appreciate the opportunity to open our doors and to support Black-owned businesses serving our community. There will truly be something for everyone at this event, and we look forward to welcoming these entrepreneurs and their companies.”

Black-owned businesses and the products and services featured include:

Lip care from Petals de Rosé

• Custom apparel from Che’s Custom Designs

• Women’s clothing from Celia’s Boutique

• Paparazzi accessories from Queen Peach Gems

• Bath soaks from Kevin at Unplugged Essentials

• Beauty products from Natalia at Moya Beauty

BuyBlackNB held a pop-up vendors market at The Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum on Saturday, August 28.

For a complete list of vendors, visit the Dartmouth Mall website.

Read More:BuyBlackNB Pop Up Market Debuts at Dartmouth Mall This Weekend| https://fun107.com/buyblacknb-pop-up-market-dartmouth-mall-2021/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral

New Bedford Pop-up Market to Showcase Black-Owned Businesses

August 27, 2021

A pop-up market at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House in New Bedford Saturday will showcase Black-owned businesses from across the South Coast.

Justina Perry heads BuyBlackNB, which organized the event. She said Black business owners in the region have faced barriers like limited access to capital and mentorship, and this market will be a chance to support those owners.

“So many opportunities have been limited for black business owners, including access to capital and mentorship. So we want to be able to uplift this community and celebrate this unique and diverse group of business owners,” said Perry.

“We'll be there serving food, selling products and just creating a space for people who are passionate about supporting Black-owned businesses,” she said.

The event will include live music and entertainment for kids.

The market will run from 9 AM to 1 PM Saturday at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House on County Street in New Bedford.

In addition to the market, BuyBlackNB convenes a monthly online discussion series, HERstory, to share the stories of local Black businesswomen. The next HERstory series event is on September 22. More info available on BuyBlackNB’s website.

Read more: https://www.capeandislands.org/local-news/2021-08-27/new-bedford-pop-up-market-to-showcase-black-owned-businesses

DON’T MISS: Buy Black outdoor market; opera at Seamen’s Bethel; comedy at the mill; Reggae on West Beach; Fab Four flashback

August 23, 2021

Support Black-owned businesses and indulge in some self-care

Justina Perry started Buy Black NB last year amid the turmoil of the pandemic and the nation’s racial reckoning. Her mission was to offer some relief amid all that pain, to “uplift the Black community and improve visibility of Black-owned businesses.”

Buy Black’s online directory now boasts some 150 local businesses, some of which will be at Saturday’s popup outdoor market at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House. Many specialize in self-care goodies: handcrafted teas, therapeutic bath salts and scented soaps, luxe cosmetics, custom gift baskets and chocolate-dipped sweets. Cabo Vegan will be there — the catering service delivers animal-free versions of Cape Verdean delicacies, such as rissois and pastels, djagacida, and a cardamon cake paired with candied papaya. While you’re shopping, you could commission a caricature from artist Quinn Harris or find out more about a budding documentary on New Bedford’s “pandemic renaissance.”

There will be live music by Manny Escobar and DJ Fresco, art activities, and back-to-school supply giveaways. Perry, a lifelong New Bedford resident and doctor of physical therapy who recently became a mom, says more vendor markets are on the horizon along with Buy Black’s ongoing “HERstory” series celebrating women entrepreneurs. Follow Buy Black NB on Facebook for updates and vendor spotlights.

Black Vendors Market Returns in New Bedford [TOWNSQUARE SUNDAY]

August 22, 2021

Buy Black NB is back with another Pop Up Vendors Market on August 28, 2021, and the public is invited. The event will take place on Saturday, August 28, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rotch Jones Duff House and Gardens on County Street in New Bedford.

Buy Black NB founder Justina Perry held a similar event in June at the same location, and it was a big success. Perry said she's expanding the August event with more vendors, a play area for kids, and free entertainment.

August is also National Black Business Month, and businesswoman Tanya Alves joined Perry on Townsquare Sunday, discussing her experiences operating a business with her mother, Celia Brito, in Downtown New Bedford. Celia's Boutique has been in business for 18 years.

Buy Black NB, an online site, was founded by Justina Perry in 2020. The site is a listing of Black-owned businesses on the SouthCoast. Perry said more than 150 businesses are now listed on the site for online users to study.

Read More: Black Vendors Market Returns in New Bedford [TOWNSQUARE SUNDAY]| https://wbsm.com/new-bedford-black-vendors-market-returns/?fbclid=IwAR3JrqB7w6kVcCCxI_bK9Usy7pbKsYY26-aRcsMonTli2_eedGkzrxpIABQ&utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral

"A Conversation With...." Buy Black NB

August 8, 2021

NEW BEDFORD — In this episode of "A Conversation With...." host Jim Marshall speaks with Justina Perry, Founder and Director of Buy Black NB regarding the upcoming pop up outdoor market being held August 28th at the Rotch Jones Duff House in New Bedford.

Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqGYEAEynMM

Five unique Black-owned vendors to check out at BuyBlackNB's second pop-up event

July 30, 2021

NEW BEDFORD — After the success of BuyBlackNB’s first pop-up vendor market at the Rotch-Jones-Duff-House in June, the organization will host another event to celebrate National Black Business Month on Aug. 28.

“There was something so special about our Juneteenth market,” said Justina Perry, creator of BuyBlackNB. Since starting the organization in June 2020, Perry has worked hard to bring exposure to Black-owned businesses in the SouthCoast region.

“The sense of community among the vendors and the energy from those who attended...it was beautiful and it was just the feeling I hoped this event would promote. We’re proving that this concept works in our city and if you build it people will come,” Perry said in a press release.

“In supporting Black-owned businesses,” she added. “We are working to close the racial wealth gap, strengthen our local economies, foster job creation and celebrate Black culture.”

The Rotch-Jones-Duff House was busy during the first event, with reports of over 1,000 people in attendance. The house’s executive director Dawn Salerno, said she was blown away by the crazy turnout.

“What we're having today is unique,” Salerno said in a previous interview. “To see this many people here is everything we could’ve hoped for.”

In addition to the 30+ vendors in attendance, the event also featured activities including an arts & craft section for kids, a caricaturist and the Black Panther himself alongside Shuri from Marvel’s “Black Panther,” taking photos with guests.

“The feedback from the vendors was encouraging because they sold so many products and were able to build relationships with new customers,” Perry noted in a press release. “We are looking forward to creating that opportunity again!”

As of now, BuyBlackNB has confirmed 14 vendors for the August pop-up event. Returning vendors include Kinks Hair Care, Moya Beauty, Insightful Tees, Unplugged Essentials, The Communal Space, Quinn Harris Illustrations, 6 Figure Smile and Mindful Melodies and new booths such as For Our God Only, All Things By AM, Sucka Free, Rose and Fontes LLC, Anika Tyshina Skincare and Cards by Cecelia.

Read the full article: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/business/2021/07/30/buy-black-new-bedford-host-second-pop-up-vendor-market-event-august/5379282001/

The Intercultural Cafe: An Interactive Community Conversation

July 16, 2021

Justina Perry of BuyBlackNB joined 3rd EyE Unlimited and the Communal Space for a recap of the Juneteenth outdoor market, a preview of the upcoming event on August 28th, and a discussion on why buying local and buying Black matters.

Watch the full interview: https://www.facebook.com/176094349176965/videos/254186273138356

New Bedford Celebrates Juneteenth Holiday

June 20, 2021

New Bedford, Massachusetts – Several events took place Saturday in New Bedford to mark the first-ever "official" Juneteenth holiday.

President Joe Biden signed legislation this week to make "Juneteenth," or June 19, a federal holiday. The holiday marks the 1863 emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.

The events included a pop-up vendors market at the Rotch Jones-Duff House on County Street, sponsored by Buy Black NB. More than 20 vendors representing Black-owned businesses in Southeastern Massachusetts displayed their products and services to people ready to get outside and enjoy the day. Organizer Justina Perry told WBSM's Brian Thomas that more than 150 people did some browsing and buying during the first two hours of the event.

Read More:New Bedford Celebrates Juneteenth Holiday| https://wbsm.com/new-bedford-celebrates-juneteenth-holiday/

How to Celebrate Juneteenth in the New Bedford Area

Wednesday, June 16, 2021

New Bedford, Massachusetts – Juneteenth recognizes an important day for Black Americans and now that Massachusetts recognizes it as an official state holiday — here’s how you can celebrate this historic day in the SouthCoast.

On June 19, 1865, the last slaves in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom, two years after President Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation. Last July, Gov. Charlie Baker signed legislation making Juneteenth an official state holiday.

“Juneteenth is a chance for us all to reflect on this country’s painful history of slavery and the systemic impact that racial injustice continues to have today,” said Baker. “It is also an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the goal of creating a more equal and just society.”

In New Bedford, there will be numerous Juneteenth celebrations to attend throughout the day.

“Juneteenth Independence Day is a time for us to reflect on our history of fighting for freedom and equity, to celebrate and be joyful about our triumphs, and to recommit to social justice,” said Justina Perry, founder of BuyBlackNB.

The organization, which supports Black-owned businesses, is hosting its first outdoor event, a pop-up market, at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Gardens. The affair will feature a hand-selected diverse group of local vendors.

The organization, which supports Black-owned businesses, is hosting its first outdoor event, a pop-up market, at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Gardens. The affair will feature a hand-selected diverse group of local vendors.

Read more: https://www.southcoasttoday.com/story/entertainment/holiday/2021/06/16/juneteenth-events-new-bedford-fall-river-june-19-popup-market-jubilee-celebrate-holiday/7698038002/

WBSM : New Bedford’s #BuyBlackNB Works to Empower Local Black Entrepreneur

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

New Bedford, Massachusetts – Among many historically significant events, 2020 will be marked as the year of a long-overdue social awakening. Across the country, activists mobilized and community organizations were formed that became part of a rapidly growing movement for racial equity.

From the outset, New Bedford became and remains the epicenter of this movement on the SouthCoast. Local leaders have taken up the broad spectrum of causes to empower communities of color on the SouthCoast, causes such as criminal justice reform, equity in housing, and in the case of Buy Black NB, fostering entrepreneurship. Buy Black NB is an online platform dedicated to highlighting, discovering, and promoting Black-owned businesses on the SouthCoast.

In the year since it was formed, Buy Black NB's directory has grown at a rapid clip, having discovered over 150 and counting Black-owned businesses in the region that provide a comprehensive list of goods and services that meet all local consumer needs.

This year, Buy Black NB will be hosting its first in-person community event. "Black in Business" will be a pop-up market featuring over 20 vendors in the Buy Black NB directly. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House on County Street in New Bedford on June 19, also known as Juneteenth.

Read more and listen to a seven-minute segment with Justina Perry, founder of Buy Black NB and Marcus Ferro, host of The Marcus Ferro Show here: https://wbsm.com/new-bedford-buy-black-nb/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral

THE PROVIDENCE JOURNAL: Want to attend a Juneteenth celebration? Events across New England to mark end of slavery in U.S.

Friday, June 11, 2021

Providence, Rhode Island – Red velvet cake, spicy red sausages and strawberry soda enjoyed at barbecues, park parties and festivals. Notes from saxophones and gospel hymns stir the thick June air, and traditional prayer and storytelling ring out among dancing feet.

This is historically the fabric of Juneteenth celebrations, a day embodying freedom and independence for the Black community in the United States, marking the effective end of slavery on June 19, 1865.

Though President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation had officially outlawed slavery nearly two-and-a-half years earlier, word did not reached the enslaved people in Galveston, Texas until federal troops arrived there in 1865 to tell them of their freedom and announce that the Civil War had ended.

What is Juneteenth?: Learn more here.

Juneteenth is deeply rooted in tradition, and considered the longest-running African American holiday. Last year, following the murder of George Floyd, there was a new interest in the holiday among the general public, and many of 2020's related events became a call for justice and systemic change.

Juneteenth isn't currently recognized as a federal holiday, but is recognized as a state or ceremonial holiday in 47 states. It is celebrated on Saturday, June 19.

Juneteenth events in Massachusetts 

New Bedford: Juneteenth Black In Business POPUP Market; Saturday, June 19, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Rotch Jones Duff House

2021 Juneteenth Jubilee Celebration; Saturday, June 19, 12 to 5 p.m., NAACP New Bedford at 95 Cedar Street

See the full list of events and read more here: https://www.providencejournal.com/story/news/2021/06/11/juneteenth-celebrations-massachusetts-rhode-island-new-hampshire-connecticut-maine-1865-end-slavery/7526866002

SOUTHCOAST ALMANAC: 8 Great Things: June on the South Coast

Tuesday, June 1, 2021

New Bedford, Massachusetts – It felt like just the other day when it was winter (probably because it was the other day!) But now the sun is breaking out and things are quite literally brightening up. We’re so excited to see June, heralding the arrival of summer wonderfulness. You want to know what to do this month? Here are 8 things we recommend to make the most of it!

…

5. Juneteenth Pop Up Market

BuyBlackNB is hosting their very first outdoor event with a hand-selected diverse group of local vendors offering you an opportunity to find your next favorite product! Safely celebrate the summer and enjoy art, food, clothing, children’s entertainment and handmade goods in the beauty of the Rotch-Jones-Duff gardens.  June 19, 11-3. 

Read more: https://southcoastalmanac.com/june-on-the-south-coast/

SOUTHCOAST FM: Buy Black NB: Justina Perry on building community

Monday, May 31, 2021

New Bedford, Massachusetts – One of the greatest opportunities we have as business owners on the South Coast is to co-promote, brand, and create content.

If there’s one thing COVID taught us (okay there’s many, but…), its that we need to keep awareness and communications going for our brands to survive. Over the last year and a half it came in the form of online through our web sites, social media accounts, and newsletters.

We were zooming and we were posting. From e-commerce to curbside pickup, showing up online became a priority for those of us who could.

Justina Perry, founder/director/and so much more of Buy Black NB joins us today to talk about taking that idea and expanding it into an online directory for Black owned businesses in New Bedford.

We’ll explore how she’s growing the brand, supporting the business community and learn what went into Buy Black NB’s upcoming in-person event. Fun fact: I love that she’s already seeing opportunity in the Fall River area…look for a pop-up event coming soon.

LISTEN: https://southcoast.fm/?post_type=post&p=1325

NEW BEDFORD GUIDE: BuyBlackNB announces Juneteenth POP-UP Buy Black Business Vendor Marke

Friday, May 28, 2021

New Bedford, Massachusetts – Black businesses have suffered huge losses during the COVID-19 quarantine. So BuyBlackNB is creating a safe space to support them and allow you to #BuyBlack. Shop a curated selection of local Black-owned businesses while enjoying music, giveaways, networking, and community building.“We’re hosting a space that welcomes and celebrates local, talented creatives,” said Justina Perry of New Bedford, who has been a catalyst in bringing regional exposure to Black-owned businesses since starting the initiative in June 2020.“Part of the mission is to circulate money in the community,” says Perry. “We do this by advocating for Black businesses to be supported and sustained so they can thrive.”

Date of event: Saturday, June 19, 2021
Time of event: 11-3
Location: Rotch-Jones-Duff House
396 County St, New Bedford. MA

Juneteenth, also known as Black Independence Day, commemorates June 19th, 1865, when news of the official end of slavery in the United States finally reached Galveston, Texas -notably two and a half years after the formal in-statement of Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. This is a day of recognition and empowerment for the Black community and its allies. “This event is creating an opportunity for customers to build relationships with businesses,” says Perry, founder, and director of BuyBlackNB.

Read more: https://www.newbedfordguide.com/buyblacknb-announces-juneteenth-pop-up-buy-black-business-vendor-market/2021/05/28

THE HERALD NEWS: How BuyBlackNB plans to support Black-owned SouthCoast businesses and celebrate Juneteenth

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — BuyBlackNB will host their first outdoor event celebrating Black-owned businesses in the SouthCoast on Juneteenth.

“This is our first live community event, everything's been virtual since BuyBlackNB’s conception,” said Justina Perry, founder and director. Perry started the organization during the pandemic after compiling a list of Black-owned businesses to support during the Black Lives Matter protests.

“We didn't have anything like this,” she said. "We're just making it really easy for people to access the directory for people looking for how to support.” Perry says she’s already discovered more than 150 registered Black-owned businesses in the SouthCoast.

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth, also known as Black Independence Day, honors the official end of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865. It’s a day to empower the Black community and its allies.

Where and when is the 'Black in Business' pop-up market?

Among the many events happening in the SouthCoast, BuyBlackNB will be doing its part by hosting a pop-up event called, "Black in Business" to help build relationships between customers and Black-owned businesses. The pop-up market will be at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“My goals for the event are that the businesses are able to sell a lot of products, connect with new customers and maybe network a little bit with each other,” Perry said. “It's creating a space for community building.”

Vendors and activities

So far confirmed vendors include FOGO, Baskets of Grace, Unplugged Essentials, Celia’s Boutique, Always in Bloom Flower and Gift Shoppe, The Found Treasures, Alison Wells Fine Art, Kings Hair Care, Savage Dollz, Hillustations, Fusion Dolls, Moya Beauty, E Sweets, Mindful Melodies LLC, Williams Landscaping, Holy Crepe!, Nautical Blooms Collection and The Communal Space.

There will also be family activities such as a Father’s Day card creating station and glitter tattoos. Also, character’s Black Panther and Shuri from Marvel’s “Black Panther,” will be joining in on the fun to sign autographs and provide additional entertainment. The event is funded in part by Wicked Cool Places and finances by the city of New Bedford’s Arts, Culture and Tourism Fund.

Read more here: https://www.heraldnews.com/story/business/2021/05/19/juneteenth-pop-up-market-support-new-bedford-black-owned-businesses-southcoast-ma/5131700001

THE SCALLOP: Buy Black New Bedford celebrates Juneteenth with Black-owned pop-up market

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — This Juneteenth, Buy Black New Bedford, an online platform that promotes Black-owned businesses, will host its first event, an outdoor pop-up market showcasing Black entrepreneurs and creators. 

“We’re hosting a space that welcomes and celebrates local, talented creatives,” said Justina Perry, founder and director of Buy Black New Bedford. “Part of the mission is to circulate money in the community. We do this by advocating for Black businesses to be supported and sustained so they can thrive.”

According to a press release put out by the organization, the outdoor market will feature 17 vendors with more to be announced on Buy Black New Bedford’s Instagram page. Vendors run the gamut from florists and hair stylists, to fine artists and community leaders. 

The event will be held on Saturday, June 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House, 396 County Street. Vendors and attendees will be required to wear face masks and practice physical distancing. 

Read more: https://thescallop.org/2021/05/buy-black-new-bedford-celebrates-juneteenth-with-black-owned-pop-up-market2

WBSM: June 19th Event to Promote Black-Owned Businesses

Sunday, May 9, 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — Justina Perry, founder of the online site Buy Black NB, is continuing her work to promote Black and minority-owned businesses on the SouthCoast.

Her latest effort will take place on June 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the grounds of the historic Rotch-Jones-Duff House on County Street in New Bedford.

The Juneteenth celebration will include an outdoor vendors market to allow Black business owners a chance to meet the public and promote their products.

Justina Perry spoke this week with Townsquare Sunday about the pop-up vendors market, the involvement of the Rotch-Jones-Duff House, and some future projects she's working on. Perry's interview can be heard here:

https://wbsm.com/june-19th-event-to-promote-black-owned-businesses-townsquare-sunday/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral

Read More: June 19th Event to Promote Black-Owned Businesses|

Fun107: Shop Black-Owned Businesses at New Bedford Pop-Up Outdoor Market

Tuesday, April 12, 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — Celebrate Juneteenth this year by supporting and buying Black at a pop-up outdoor market in New Bedford.

BuyBlackNB, an online platform that highlights Black-owned businesses across the SouthCoast, is hosting the outdoor market, Black in Business, on June 19, providing a safe space for business owners to get their products in front of customers and featuring everything from art and food to clothing and more.

“We’re hosting a space that welcomes and celebrates local, talented creatives,” BuyBlackNB founder Justina Perry said in a press release. “Part of the mission is to circulate money in the community. We do this by advocating for Black businesses to be supported and sustained so they can thrive.”

The market will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House, and in accordance with local health guidelines, all participants and customers will be required to wear masks and practice social distancing throughout the event.

Read More: Shop Black-Owned Businesses at New Bedford Pop-Up Outdoor Market| https://fun107.com/black-owned-business-new-bedford

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BuyBlackNB announces Juneteenth POP-UP Buy Black Business Vendor Market

BuyBlackNB is hosting their very first outdoor event with a hand-selected diverse group of vendors offering you an opportunity to find your next favorite product! Safely celebrate the summer and enjoy Black art, food, clothing, and more!

New Bedford, Massachusetts (April 11, 2021) - Black businesses have suffered huge losses during the COVID-19 quarantine. So BuyBlackNB is creating a safe space to support them and allow you to #BuyBlack. Shop a curated selection of local Black-owned businesses while enjoying music, giveaways, networking, and community building. “We’re hosting a space that welcomes and celebrates local, talented creatives,” said Justina Perry of New Bedford, who has been a catalyst in bringing regional exposure to Black-owned businesses since starting the initiative in June 2020. “Part of the mission is to circulate money in the community,” says Perry. “We do this by advocating for Black businesses to be supported and sustained so they can thrive.”

Date of event: Saturday, June 19, 2021

Time of event: 11-3

Location: Rotch-Jones-Duff House 396 County St, New Bedford, MA

Juneteenth, also known as Black Independence Day, commemorates June 19th, 1865, when news of the official end of slavery in the United States finally reached Galveston, Texas - notably two and a half years after the formal instatement of Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. This is a day of recognition and empowerment for the Black community and its allies.

“This event is creating an opportunity for customers to build relationships with businesses,” says Perry, founder and director of BuyBlackNB.

Participants and patrons will be required to wear face coverings and practice physical distancing. This project is funded in part by Wicked Cool Places, financed by the city of New Bedford’s Arts, Culture and Tourism Fund.

Follow @BuyBlackNB for updates as they will be announcing vendors when they are confirmed for this family-friendly event. Use BuyBlackNB.com as your go-to resource for supporting Black-owned businesses in the South Coast.

About BuyBlackNB

BuyBlackNB is an online platform dedicated to highlighting, discovering, and promoting Black-owned businesses in New Bedford and surrounding towns. In supporting Black-owned businesses, we are working to close the racial wealth gap, strengthen our local economies, foster job creation, and celebrate Black culture.

Add a Black-owned business to the directory: https://www.buyblacknb.com/submit

Purchase a shirt or a tank: https://www.buyblacknb.com/shop

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BuyBlackNB/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buyblacknb/

Email: info@buyblacknb.com # # #

The Scallop: Black in Business Brings Black Women’s Stories to the Forefront

Thursday, March 18, 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — In honor of Black History Month, Justina Perry of Buy Black New Bedford teamed up with Rayana Grace and the New Bedford Historical Society to create the event series Black in Business: HERstory. These events are focused on celebrating Black female business leaders in New Bedford.

 “We are keeping with our commitment to uplift the Black community and increase visibility of Black owned businesses,” said Perry in an email to The Scallop. “This is also an opportunity to encourage Black women in their journeys to push boundaries.” 

Buy Black New Bedford has been shining a spotlight on Black owned businesses in the South Coast since the summer of 2020. The organization has grown from a regularly updated blog to a full-fledged leader in the New Bedford community.

Read more: https://thescallop.org/2021/03/black-in-business-brings-black-womens-stories-to-the-forefront

The South Coast Insider: Spotlight on Black businesses

March 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — After the nation - and world - witnessed the horrific murder of George Floyd last May, many were galvanized to take to the streets and express their outrage and force America to grapple with its legacy of racial injustice.

Justina Perry, too, was galvanized into action. The 32-year-old life-long New Bedford resident says the sight of what she saw happening to Black bodies around the national compelled her to take action.

That determination found expression in a campaign she launched last June called BuyBlackNB - an online platform highlighting the area’s many Black-owned small businesses and creative endeavors. It was launched as a website that featured over 75 Black-owned businesses. You can find it at buyblacknb.com.

Read more here: https://issuu.com/coastalmags/docs/sci-mar21/s/11790585

Townsquare Sunday: Black in Business Forums on Zoom

February 21, 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — Once again, Zoom will be the platform for a series of programs about folks who are "Black in Business."

The forums are sponsored by the New Bedford Historical Society and Buy Black NB as part of the Black History Month celebration. The Zoom meetings will start on February 25 with a discussion about black women in business.

Business people from our area will be telling their stories about the difficulties they faced in starting a business, and how they overcame those hurdles.

The Historical Society's Rayana Grace and Justina Perry, founder of the website Buy Black NB, spoke with Townsquare Sunday this week about the forums and what the organizers hope to accomplish.

Read more here: Black in Business Forums on Zoom [TOWNSQUARE SUNDAY]

SoCo Living: Discover How Buy Black NB is Empowering Local Communities

February 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — If you’re looking for ways you can support local during Black History Month, we’ve got you covered! You’ll get to feel like you are contributing to your community in a meaningful way. This Black History Month, we’re highlighting Buy Black NB, an online platform dedicated to discovering and promoting Black-owned businesses throughout the South Coast. Buy Black NB’s founder and director Justina Perry wanted to find an easy way to support small businesses, promote job creation, and celebrate Black culture.

Inspiring Roots

In June of 2020, Justina Perry could not just sit there throughout the wrongful suffering due to the impact of the coronavirus and its economic fallout. Many people of color have been denied access to federal aid programs like the Paycheck Protection Program at higher rates. At the time Perry was furloughed and felt compelled to support her community head on. Her inspiration came from a daunting statistic that predicted that 40% of Black-owned businesses wouldn’t survive the pandemic. She knew that the South Coast didn’t have a directory of Black-owned businesses. She modeled Black business listings that were already circulating on a national level.

Building the Foundation

Despite not even having a laptop or Webcam when she started, Justina Perry overcame the odds and pushed on to create her platform from scratch. She knew that overcoming some technical difficulties was all worth uplifting her community to create the Black economic empowerment! Buy Black NB does not charge a fee to be featured. Its number one goal is to connect consumers with her beloved Black-owned businesses.

Black in Business

Looking for more ways to support? Come join Justina Perry for her online event in the first of a series called ​Black In Business that aims to highlight and support Black entrepreneurs and aspiring business leaders. With HERstory, we invite everyone to join in celebrating Black Women role models and to enjoy women-led and focused discussions. Rayana Grace of the New Bedford historical society will be co-hosting the event with Justina.

Read more here: https://lovesocoliving.com/buy-black-new-bedford/

New Bedford Creative: New Bedford Creative Announces 2021 Wicked Cool Places Grants

Monday, February 15, 2021

NEW BEDFORD, MA — This year’s Wicked Cool Places arts and culture grants have been selected in a signal that City of New Bedford artists are ready to prepare for a post-pandemic future.

Wicked Cool Places is New Bedford Creative’s grant program for creative placemaking. It is funded by the City of New Bedford’s Arts, Culture + Tourism Fund, with additional funding by Bristol County Savings Bank. It was fully launched in July, 2019, shortly after the New Bedford Creative Consortium was formed under the city’s first-ever arts and culture plan, which debuted in December 2018.

New Bedford Creative Strategist, Margo Saulnier explains, “Creative placemaking has never been as important as it is now. As we continue to adjust to life during a pandemic, placemaking helps ensure that we remain connected as a community. The recipients of Wicked Cool Places will make that possible in engaging and meaningful ways.”

The New Bedford Creative Consortium is an all-volunteer membership body that meets quarterly and is divided into three Squads: Public Art + Facilities, Placemaking + Community, and Fundraising + Distribution – the final squad being the members who evaluate proposals for projects from New Bedford creative residents.

This year, they have awarded grants to the following projects:

BuyBlackNB; Justina Perry, $6,000 - BuyBlackNB seeks to connect consumers with Black-owned businesses across the SouthCoast. In an effort to continue supporting Black-owned businesses, the group will host an outdoor market in downtown New Bedford’s Custom House Square. There, all people are invited to come purchase goods and services from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Owned Businesses in a safe and inclusive place.

“In supporting Black-owned businesses, we are working to close the racial wealth gap, strengthen our local economies, foster job creation, and celebrate Black culture,” they write. (Photo of Unplugged Essentials products courtesy of CEO Kevin Rose Jr. & BuyBlackNB)

Read more at http://newbedfordcreative.org.

Black Presently: Celebrating Black Excellence

Thursday, February 11, 2021: Justina Perry from BuyBlackNB joined EforAll, Community Bridges Inc, The American Red Cross, and the New Bedford Historical Society for a discussion to celebrate Black excellence at Black Presently, presented by 3rd EyE Unlimited and the Communal Space.

Watch the full discussion here.

South Coast Almanac: BuyBlackNB Holiday Gift Guide

November 25, 2020: Just in time for the shopping season! Join us as we talk to Justina Perry about the new Holiday Gift Guide from Buy Black NB, a directory of Black owned businesses and entrepreneurs on the South Coast.

Watch Tuesday’s “Sip and Dish” interview here.

FUN 107: Buy Black NB’s 2020 Holiday Gift Guide Is a Win-Win

November 19, 2020: The Buy Black NB website launched back in June and connects consumers with Black-owned businesses. The site recently came out with a holiday gift guide that not only promotes these Black-owned businesses but encourages us to shop local for the holidays at the same time. This guide is meant to show how you can Buy Black this season for everyone on your list.

“In supporting local Black-owned businesses, we are working to close the racial wealth gap, strengthen our local economies, foster job creation, and celebrate Black culture,” said founder, Justina Perry of New Bedford.

Read More:Buy Black NB's 2020 Holiday Gift Guide Is a Win-Win| https://fun107.com/buy-black-nbs-2020-holiday-gift-guide-is-a-win-win/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral

WBSM: Website Promotes Black-Owned Businesses

November 13, 2020: New Bedford resident Justina Perry is the founder of an online platform dedicated to highlighting, discovering and promoting Black-owned businesses in the Greater New Bedford area.

Perry says the site buyblacknb.com was created during the spring of 2020, and to date, more than 120 businesses and professionals have been listed.

Among her goals are to close the racial wealth gap, foster job creation and celebrate black culture. Perry was interviewed this week on Townsquare Sunday, and talked about the buzz her website has created so far.

The interview can be heard here: https://wbsm.com/website-promotes-black-owned-businesses-townsquare-sunday/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral

BuyBlackNB: 3rd EyE’s live AHA! Night

Justina Perry form BuyBlackNB speak at 3rd EyE's live virtual event during AHA Night. Watch here, beginning at 2:40.

The Scallop: A Day Buying Black in New Bedford

October 15, 2020: Since June, Buy Black New Bedford has been compiling a list of Black owned business in the South Coast region. This article, the first in a series, will be looking at how to spend an entire day in New Bedford while only shopping at Black owned businesses.

Founded by New Bedford native Justina Perry, Buy Black New Bedford has grown to include over 120 businesses, organizations and community services. To see their complete list visit Buy Black New Bedford’s website or Facebook and Instagram pages.

“We have made it really easy for tourists and locals to support Black owned businesses all across the South Coast,” said Perry. “We are hearing back from lifelong residents how valuable this guide has been for discovering services and shops right in their own neighborhoods.”

Read more here: https://thescallop.org/2020/10/a-day-buying-black-in-new-bedford

EforAll: Please join us in congratulating the winners of the virtual all ideas pitch contest!

August 3, 2020: BuyBlackNB wins first place at the SoCo Virtual All Ideas Pitch Contest!

It was an all around fun time had by all last Thursday at our SoCo Virtual All Ideas Pitch Contest!

We want to thank all of the local businesses that participated and all of those that came on to support. Please join us in congratulating the winners of the virtual all ideas pitch contest!

𝗙𝗔𝗡 𝗙𝗔𝗩𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗘: Ayesha Mahajan, [Uni]versal

𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗥𝗗 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗘: Jacqueline Correa-Gonsale, Jumpin' Jaq's

𝗦𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗗 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗘: Keri-Ann Wagner, Path to Healing,Inc

𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗦𝗧 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗘: Justina Perry, BuyBlackNB

Read more: https://www.facebook.com/EforAllSouthCoast/posts/2855683604538266

WCAI: Local Movement to Support Black-owned Businesses Receives Positive Feedback

July 13, 2020: Many communities and activists trying to harness the momentum that has come from the protests that erupted after the death of George Floyd and other African-Americans in police custody.

One response has been a movement to support Black-owned businesses.

The local movement to support Black-owned businesses. A website recently launched in New Bedford, one is in the works on Cape Cod, and one on Martha's Vineyard has been up for more than a year now, but it's recently had an increase in activity.

The organizers say it's one way to bring about racial equality after centuries of systematic racism.

Justina Perry started the page, BuyBlack New Bedford where she has a list of about 90 Black-owned businesses, and counting.

Perry is Black herself, and a physical therapist who was furloughed during the pandemic. She had time on her hands and when George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police, she wanted to get involved.

But she has an 8-month-old baby and was afraid of going to a protest and bringing the virus home to her newborn.

So instead, she started BuyBlack New Bedford.

Read more: https://www.capeandislands.org/post/local-movement-support-black-owned-businesses-receives-positive-feedback#stream/0

WPRI: New website connects customers with Black-owned businesses in New Bedford area

July 2, 2020: NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — A new website has been created to connect people with Black-owned businesses in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Buy Black NB has an interactive map and directory of more than 75 Black-owned businesses in New Bedford and the surrounding community, and plans to continue to add more at no charge.

Read more: https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/se-mass/new-website-connects-customers-with-black-owned-businesses-in-new-bedford-area/

New Bedford Guide: BuyBlackNB launches to drive support to black-owned businesses in the New Bedford area

July 1, 2020: The initiative, seeking to connect consumers with Black-owned businesses, launched with a website that features over 75 Black-owned businesses at www.buyblacknb.com.

​BuyBlackNB is a new initiative dedicated to highlighting, discovering, and promoting Black-owned businesses in New Bedford and surrounding towns.

“In supporting local Black-owned businesses, we are working to close the racial wealth gap, strengthen our local economies, foster job creation, and celebrate Black culture,” said Justina Perry of New Bedford, who started the initiative earlier this month.

The group launched with an interactive map and directory of over 75 Black-owned businesses at ​www.buyblacknb.com​. They will continue to add businesses to the directory and drive awareness of these Black-owned businesses across social media platforms.

Read more: https://www.newbedfordguide.com/buyblacknb-black-owned-businesses-new-bedford/2020/07/01

NAACP New Bedford: BuyBlack NB initiative

July 3, 2020: BuyBlackNB is a new initiative dedicated to highlighting, discovering, and promoting Black-owned businesses in New Bedford and surrounding towns. The platform launched this month with an interactive map and directory of over 75 Black-owned businesses. They will continue to add businesses to the directory and drive awareness of these Black-owned businesses across social media platforms.According to a press release, BuyBlackNB does not charge businesses to be listed in the directory or featured on social media. If your business is not yet listed, please submit to www.buyblacknb.com.

Read more: https://naacpnewbedford.org/buyblack-nb/

South Coast Almanac: Stories behind the Stories with Justina Perry

BuyBlackNB founder Justina Perry joined South Coast Almanac on Facebook Live for a discussion about BuyBlackNB initiatives.

Watch the full discussion here.

Fun 107: BuyBlackNB Launches to Drive Support to Black-Owned Businesses in the New Bedford Area

The group launched with an interactive map and directory of over 75 Black-owned businesses at BuyBlackNB.com.

They will continue to add businesses to the directory and drive awareness of these Black-owned businesses across social media platforms. BuyBlackNB will also serve as a source for resources and action.

Their first fundraiser is a t-shirt and tank sale. 100% of profits will go directly to the New Bedford Branch of the NAACP. BuyBlackNB does not charge businesses to be listed in the directory or featured on social media. The work is a labor of love for people, places, and products that make up the New Bedford community.

Read More: BuyBlackNB Supports Black-Owned Businesses in New Bedford Area | https://fun107.com/buyblacknb-launches-to-drive-support-to-black-owned-businesses-in-the-new-bedford-area/?utm_source=buyblacknb

WBSM: BuyBlackNB Launches to Drive Support to Black-Owned Businesses in the New Bedford Area

June 18, 2020: According to a recent press release, the BuyBlackNB website launched on Tuesday, June 16.

The initiative, seeking to connect consumers with Black-owned businesses, launched with a website that features over 75 Black-owned businesses at BuyBlackNB.com.

BuyBlackNB is a new initiative dedicated to highlighting, discovering, and promoting Black-owned businesses in New Bedford and surrounding towns. “In supporting local Black-owned businesses, we are working to close the racial wealth gap, strengthen our local economies, foster job creation, and celebrate Black culture,” said Justina Perry of New Bedford, who started the initiative earlier this month.

Read More: BuyBlackNB Supports Black-Owned Businesses in New Bedford Area | https://wbsm.com/buyblacknb-launches-to-drive-support-to-black-owned-businesses-in-the-new-bedford-area/?utm_source=buyblacknb

Fun107: “Now Is The Time to Stand With Our Local Black-Owned Businesses”

June 3, 2020: This guest opinion piece by: Justina Perry is a Physical Therapist at Southcoast Health, lives in New Bedford, and is the creator of BuyBlackNB.

First, there was the coronavirus pandemic, which has disproportionately affected Black people (according to the CDC, 33 percent of hospitalized patients were black compared to 18% in the community), forcing businesses to temporarily close and lose revenue. Last week the Washington Post reported, “the number of working African American business owners in the United States plummeted more than 40 percent ... a far steeper drop than other racial groups experienced.”

Then, protests erupted around the world – including here in New Bedford – following the police murder of George Floyd and far too many other instances of police brutality and violence against Black Americans.

Have you been watching what is happening across the nation and wondering how you can help? Apart from joining a protest, calling legislators, educating yourself, and donating to organizations that combat racial injustice, you can also support and shop black-owned businesses.

Read More: Now Is the Time to Stand with Our Local Black-Owned Businesses | https://fun107.com/now-is-the-time-to-stand-with-our-local-black-owned-businesses-southcoast-voices/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=buyblacknb