Google is set to launch its fifth annual Black-Owned Friday campaign. In partnership with the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc, the initiative reimagines Black Friday as Black-Owned Friday. The campaign seeks to “inspire and encourage folks to shop their values and support Black-owned businesses this holiday season.”
Award-winning filmmaker Rodney Lucas directed a short film on the campaign that features GloRilla, Druski, and Jayda Cheaves.
In the spot, Druski visits three Black-owned businesses. He makes stops at Royal Crown Barber Shop, The Wellness Spot yoga studio, and Wadada Healthy Market & Juice Bar. With the help of Google Maps, he explored the unique offerings at each location.
In a statement, Druski shared his gratitude for appearing in the campaign.
“I enjoyed working with Google on Black-Owned Friday because it’s all about celebrating the greatness in our communities,” Druski said. “I’m a comedian, but this is serious business. Spotlighting Black entrepreneurs and showing the power of supporting our own. It’s a cool way to remind folks that every choice we make can uplift the culture, and I’m here for that. Plus who doesn’t love a good smoothie, shape-up, and yoga session? I’m more flexible than meets the eye.”
“As an artist, I’m all about representing where I come from and supporting my community, ” GloRilla added. “Partnering with Google for Black-owned Friday is my way of showing love to Black entrepreneurs who are out here making big moves. Supporting Black-owned businesses is more than a moment. It’s a movement, it’s how we grow, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
Lucas also spoke about the importance of supporting Black businesses during the holidays.
“Black-Owned Friday is a moment to celebrate Black-owned businesses’ service, cratsmanship, and legacy worldwide. I am grateful for the opportunity to add a chapter to this empowering and unifying campaign,” Lucas said.
Valaurie Lee, owner of The Wellness Spot in College Park, Georgia, wrote a blog post for the campaign. She highlighted the power of Black communal support.
“I’m thrilled to participate in Google’s fifth annual Black-owned Friday campaign,” Lee wrote. “I’ve witnessed firsthand the power Black-owned businesses have to foster vibrant communities and how much community support means to entrepreneurs like me.”
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