Kim Kardashian Supports Black Business Gala In L.A.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Kim Kardashian attends the 2024 Kering for Women Dinner at The Pool on September 09, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Taylor Hill/FilmMagic)

Kim Kardashian is lending her support to Black-owned businesses, even as she faces backlash over a recent social media post featuring former First Lady Melania Trump.

The reality star and entrepreneur attended the Fifteen Percent Pledge gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night. The nonprofit advocates for racial equity by urging major retailers to dedicate 15% of their purchasing power to Black-owned businesses.

Kardashian made a statement in a backless Balmain gown with crocodile-embossed detailing and sheer, sequined embellishments. The event, hosted by Fifteen Percent Pledge founder Aurora James and R&B icon Kelly Rowland, awarded grants to three standout businesses.

RedDrop received $200,000, Brooklyn Tea secured $35,000, and Bernard James was granted $15,000. The Sephora Beauty Grant, an annual $100,000 award recognizing excellence in Black-owned beauty brands, went to Sienna Naturals, co-founded by Hannah Diop and actress-comedian Issa Rae.

Kardashian’s appearance comes amid controversy over her Instagram story last month, where she shared a photo of Melania Trump at Donald Trump’s inauguration. She offered no caption or context, leaving many to speculate about her intentions. Though she has long been close to Ivanka Trump, the Kardashian-Jenner family typically keeps their political affiliations private. When they do weigh in, they tend to support Democrats.

The post sparked immediate backlash, with critics accusing Kardashian of aligning with right-wing politics. One social media user commented, “Girl… sold out for MAGA propaganda.” In 2016, she endorsed Hillary Clinton in her race against Trump. After Joe Biden and Kamala Harris won in 2020, she posted a picture of the pair alongside three blue heart emojis.

Despite the controversy, Kim Kardashian’s presence at the gala reinforced her commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs, a cause she has championed in the past.


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