On October 22, the Greater Washington Black Chamber of Commerce (GWBCC) held its annual Art of Black Business reception at The Point D.C. in Southwest Washington. Attendees—including District business owners, government officials and community leaders—enjoyed a night of networking, live music and a live auction while focusing on the mission to strengthen Black‑owned enterprises.
Leadership emphasizes resilience and fair opportunity
GWBCC Board Chair Corey Griffin highlighted the challenges Black entrepreneurs face, noting recent attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives that have created uncertainty for Black‑owned firms and federal contractors. Griffin urged participants to advocate for fair opportunity and to work together to move businesses forward.
“We must advocate for fair opportunity by helping our members,” Griffin said, calling on the audience to collaborate with councilmembers and each other.
Honoring local business leaders
The evening honored six local entrepreneurs, including legacy florist Alexes Haggins, whose family‑run shop has been a District fixture since the 1960s. Haggins spoke about the importance of perseverance, noting that “entrepreneurship is a lifelong journey of learning.”
D.C. Secretary of State Kimberly A. Bassett praised the event’s theme, “Year of the Member,” and reminded attendees that behind every thriving business are families and communities that support them.
International partnerships and workforce development
Griffin, also president and CEO of Global Government and Industry Partners, emphasized the chamber’s global reach, citing trade missions and partnerships across Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. He encouraged attendees to bring expertise to councilmember offices and to explore workforce‑development collaborations.
Entrepreneur Tony Johnson described two promising conversations from the night—one about joint workforce‑training space and another about an upcoming international project in Africa—demonstrating the event’s role in sparking new ventures.
Building a resilient business ecosystem
Speakers stressed the need for diversification, new market entry and mutual support to counteract limited opportunities. Griffin warned against accepting diminished prospects as inevitable, urging the community to “refuse to accept diminished opportunity.”
The reception provided a platform for Black business owners to share challenges, celebrate successes and forge connections that can drive economic growth throughout the District and beyond.
Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.
