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Star-Studded Gala Raises $3 Million for Black Businesses

2/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Fourth Annual Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala lit up Paramount Studios on February 1, 2025, raising an impressive $3 million for Black-owned businesses. Hosted by Yvonne Orji, the night celebrated resilience with a $50,000 grant awarded to the Little Red Hen Coffee Shop, recently devastated by wildfires. Stars like Kelly Rowland and Keke Palmer rallied together, championing the cause of Black entrepreneurship.

History

Historical Context

The Fourth Annual Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala reflects a growing movement to support Black-owned businesses, initiated after the 2020 protests following George Floyd's murder. The 15 Percent Pledge, launched by Aurora James, urges retailers to allocate 15% of shelf space to these businesses, aiming to rectify systemic inequalities and promote economic empowerment within Black communities, echoing historical calls for economic justice and equity.

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Story summary

The Fourth Annual Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala lit up Paramount Studios on February 1, 2025, raising an impressive $3 million for Black-owned businesses. Hosted by Yvonne Orji, the night celebrated resilience with a $50,000 grant awarded to the Little Red Hen Coffee Shop, recently devastated by wildfires. Stars like Kelly Rowland and Keke Palmer rallied together, championing the cause of Black entrepreneurship.

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