From Awareness to Action: Burlington Proclaims Black Business Month

By Sydney Alexandra, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Burlington Local-News.ca

On August 14, 2025, the City of Burlington took another step toward building a more equitable, inclusive community, while giving August a deeper meaning.

National Black Business Month was first introduced in the United States in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and civil engineer Frederick E. Jordan, who saw a gap in the representation of Black-owned businesses. Their goal was to encourage people to support these businesses and help Black communities thrive economically.

While the initiative still lacks widespread recognition in the U.S., Kezia Royer-Burkett, Halton Black Voices (HBV), and other community leaders have been working to change that locally. Their advocacy led Burlington and Oakville to officially proclaim August as Black Business Month, a momentous first step toward meaningful, ongoing action.

Leena Sharma Seth reflected on the importance of building on the work of those who came before. “We are standing on the shoulders of elders who worked hard to have a seat at the table of a society that didn’t make space for them. Thanks to the work of Black-serving organizations that have been here longer [than HBV], HBV has the vision, the power, and the drive to create its own tables and to invite others to take a seat.”

Royer-Burkett spoke about the broader significance of the proclamation. “Black businesses don’t just sell products. They sell pride, culture, and belonging,” said Royer-Burkett. “Living in Burlington for the past 12 years, I’ve seen Black-owned businesses come and go: clothing boutiques, hairstylists, grocery stores, restaurants, and senior home care services. These businesses bring richness, creativity, and diversity to our city, but they’re not always visible. That’s why this proclamation matters. It says, ‘Our contributions matter, our culture matters, our businesses matter.’ Supporting Black-owned businesses doesn’t mean excluding others. It shines a light on those too often overlooked.”

Royer-Burkett also spoke about the importance of representation for the next generation of Black youth, looking toward her son as she shared her hopes.

“I hope this is a step toward a future where Black businesses in Burlington don’t just survive, but thrive. Where Black children look up and see entrepreneurs who look like them and know they can follow in their footsteps.”

Chizoba Obidigbo-Egbo, entrepreneur and Halton Black Voices board member, also addressed the audience, encouraging residents to act on the proclamation by supporting Black-owned businesses year-round.

“As this proclamation states, systemic barriers still affect the access, visibility, and networks Black businesses need to thrive. Black-owned businesses are more than economic drivers; they are cultural contributors, community-builders, and living proof of what is possible when opportunities exist.”

She invited residents to attend the Halton Black Voices annual Afro-Caribbean Marketplace, an in-person event where local Black-owned businesses can sell products, network, and connect with customers.

“This is more than a shopping experience,” Obidigbo-Egbo said. “It’s where culture, creativity, and commerce intersect. Customers can meet the faces behind the businesses, hear the stories behind the products, and see firsthand the innovation in our community. I ask that August not be the only time you interact with a Black-owned business — seek them out, support them, and share them with your friends as we move from awareness to action and from barriers to bridges.”

Sylvie Nofiele, founder of Blissful Hearts Homecare Solutions Inc., also emphasized the proclamation’s significance.

“This is more than a formality. It’s proof that Black entrepreneurs in Burlington are seen, valued, and celebrated,” she said. “Black-owned businesses demonstrate resilience, creativity, and vision. For many of us, the goal isn’t just profit, it’s purpose. We create to serve, uplift, and open doors for others. For me, that purpose is personal. My business is a promise that every person we serve is treated with dignity, respect, and love.”

Nofiele acknowledged the challenges many Black entrepreneurs face, including limited access to funding, representation, and networks.

“That’s why today matters. It’s about more than acknowledgement; it’s action. When you support a Black-owned business, you’re investing in community growth and the next generation of leaders. I encourage everyone to keep this momentum going beyond August; seek out, support, and collaborate with Black businesses all year.”

She closed with gratitude.

“Thanks to the work and dedication of Kezia Royer-Burkett and Halton Black Voices, Burlington has proclaimed this month as a time to celebrate and uplift Black entrepreneurs. Thank you for making this a city where diversity is celebrated and every entrepreneur has the opportunity to thrive. This day will be memorable. Let’s take action and keep building together.”

This proclamation is a stepping stone toward a collective action. To continue to build a community where representation is visible, valued, and supported, not just in August, but all year round.

For more information on ways you can support Black-owned businesses, see the resources provided:

Support Black-owned businesses: afrobiz.ca
Blissful Hearts Homecare Solutions Inc.: blissfulheartcare.com
Halton Black Voices: haltonblackvoices.ca