Black Gold

As more states begin to make Juneteenth a holiday,  American companies will undoubtedly seize upon the opportunity to profit off of the legacy of slavery (cue the Juneteenth Instagram posts from Amazon and Target).  America's solution to the race-problem in this country seems to be re-branding it.  In the absence of legislative and policy change we are offered a day off of work and old products packaged in new ways.  

Therefore, patronizing black-owned business is more important than ever.  Here is a list of places and companies that have encouraged me to become a repeat customer.

The Edge Harlem: This is Roberto's favorite restaurant; he loves their black bean burger and jerk-chicken wrap.  Their 16oz mango mimosas got me through the first few weeks of being on PAUSE.

Lolo's Seafood Shack: I am obsessed with their crab cake sandwich, which is even better when you add avocado.  Chloe likes their crab legs because she's fancy.

The Lip Bar: These liquid lipsticks are highly pigmented and dry with a matte finish.  My favorite shades are Haute Mess (a bright pinkish red), Curlfriend (a nude with mauve undertones) and Prom Queen (a bright pinkish purple).

Pattern Beauty: The shampoo, Medium conditioner, and leave in conditioner work really well on my weave, and Chloe uses the Jojoba Oil serum on her braids.  I'm looking forward to the release of their styling products.

Miss Jessie's Natural Hair Products:  This brand has been around forever catering to women with "multi-cultural" hair. Although that doesn't apply to me, this is another good product line for extensions! The Pillow Soft Curls cream smells like fabric softener and helps define curls without making them crunchy.

Fenty Beauty: The Pro Filt'r setting powder is the best new beauty product that I have tried in years.  It gives my foundation (also from Fenty) the matte finish that I like without making me look like a powdered donut.

Suakoko Betty: When I love something I usually buy it in multiple colors. I am obsessed with the colorful wax print wrap tops from this line by Liberian born, Atlanta based designer Charlene Dunbar.  I have also purchased several of their cloth face masks, which offer a lot of coverage.

Harlem Natural Hair Salon: Ask for Awa or Tai for braids and Roxie for weaves. This is a child-friendly salon that will have you in and out in a reasonable amount of time. 

The Lit Bar: The Lit Bar is the only bookstore in The Bronx, and it has a wine bar that serves the best Riesling!  Hopefully it will re-open soon, but until then you can order online.