PHOENIX – If you haven’t heard, the streets of Phoenix are buzzing about the monthly Buy Black Market hosted by Archwood Exchange. Over the last year, the Buy Black Marketplace has fostered a greater sense of community while bringing businesses and consumers together to circulate our dollars and create the kind of economic foundation that we haven’t seen since Black Wall Street was destroyed almost 100 years ago. Archwood Exchange was founded in 2016 to promote economic empowerment in the African-American community by highlighting the products and services offered by blackowned businesses and creating spaces for the community to connect and support. “Many black-owned businesses offer wonderful products and build loyal followings, but fail due to a lack of awareness. Archwood is working with businesses, organizations and the community to change that reality.
The first market, which occurred on May 6, 2017 was a huge success with over 35 businesses and 300 shoppers. The market has experienced incredible momentum and expansion over the last year. Hundreds of businesses and thousands of shoppers have graced The Marketplace with their presence. To celebrate this year of success and unity, the Archwood Team hosted a Buy Black Marketplace Anniversary event on Saturday, May 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The George Washington Carver Center, 415 E. Grant Street in downtown Phoenix. The event featured a range of black owned businesses offering various products and services. Archwood introduced its inaugural Archwood Exchange food competition. Music, raffles and board games were all a part of this family, fun environment while uplifting the black community. If you missed this exciting signature event, the next Buy Black market will be June 2 and every first Saturday of the month thereafter at the Parsons Health & Wellness Center, 1101 N. Central Avenue in downtown Phoenix.
The organizers say that hether you are a business owner, a supporter or a community member, we invite you to join us as we unite to create a new reality. With unity, sacrifice and dedication, we can solve every problem that exists in our community. We must be intentional in our efforts to secure freedom, justice and equality for ourselves. And we must never stop building . Learn about the Archwood Exchange at www. archwoodexchange.com or follow on Facebook at @Archwood Exchange. If you are interested in the Buy Black Marketplace and how you can take part, contact archwoodmarket@ gmail.com or visit online.
