I have this one couch at home that brings me comfort and escape. I’m sure you, too, have a piece of furniture that offers the same tranquility and allows you to unplug from the world. While that may be true for our homes or offices, couch-sitting must stop there. We cannot let this mindset carry over to our approach to the 2024 election cycle. As we approach this pivotal season for our nation and local communities, we have some critical decisions to make. These decisions will set the course for years to come, impacting our businesses, families, and society’s very fabric. I hope to highlight the crucial need for our voting bloc through my messages and leading by example.

A voting bloc is a group of individuals or organizations that align their voting preferences to influence the outcome of elections and the resulting policies. These blocs are often formed around shared interests, values, or goals and exert significant collective power within the political landscape. For us, this voting bloc is composed of the resilient and visionary members and supporters of Our Village United and the innovative businesses of The Village. The essence of our voting bloc is rooted in the intentionality of our actions—how we plan, collaborate, and empower each other.

By forming a voting bloc, we unite our efforts to influence the political landscape in favor of policies that protect and advance the interests of Black-owned businesses and marginalized communities. Our voting bloc is not just about casting ballots; it is about ensuring that our collective voice is heard and our needs are addressed. It is about creating a brighter, more equitable future for our families and businesses. When activated, our support ignites economic efficacy, fosters community wealth, and ensures that Black entrepreneurs have the resources and opportunities to thrive.

The Strength of United Representation

Our vote is not just about political preference; it’s about safeguarding our future and the future of those who depend on us. It’s never too early to ask ourselves: What do we desire for our families, and how is this impacted by the communities we serve and leaders we elect? How are we using the voting vehicle to ensure our families and businesses are cared for and heard?

As for me — an advocate for Black businesses and community empowerment — I expect elected officials to center local small businesses. We are the lifeline in every community and every rural town. It’s crucial to consider what legislation is in place to protect small businesses, especially Black-owned enterprises. From government contracts to ensuring the SBA’s continued support, we must secure the necessary protections and opportunities for our community. Our priority must be to vote in our people’s interest, safeguard their futures, and create an environment where Black businesses can thrive.

Hopefully, you’re beginning to see why individualism cannot guide our voting decisions. By focusing on mutual benefit, we can push closer to achieving sustainable results and long-term success. Business excellence is not just about scaling to seven, eight, or nine figures alone; it’s about a holistic approach that includes pouring back into the community that supports you. This season, we demonstrate our commitment by educating ourselves and others and by showing up at the polls.

I’ve said it before, Ponce City Market is better because The Village Retail is there. We have to operate with this same belief regarding our democracy and country. For it to reflect our true makeup and be a better place, our collective voice must be heard.

Please join me as we head into the election season. I’m committed to partnering with you to protect the businesses we’ve worked so hard to build and the progress we’ve achieved. Together, we’ll dive into issues affecting our community, explore civic engagement avenues, and equip ourselves with tools to counter harmful misinformation and misleading narratives.

It’s time to go after it as a Village—united, resilient, and determined! Together, we are a formidable voting bloc, and together, we can make a difference.

Are you ready to get off the couch?