Tag: Social Justice

Missing Black Women and Girls

The Disappearance Crisis: Why Black Women and Girls Are Disproportionately Missing

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The tragic and systemic issue of missing Black women and girls is a crisis that demands more attention. Due to a combination of systemic racism, violence, and human trafficking, Black women and girls are disproportionately impacted by abductions and disappearances in the United States. Unfortunately, these cases are often underreported and underrecognized, which perpetuates an environment of neglect.

Statistics: The Harsh Reality of Missing Black Women and Girls

In 2022, Black women and girls represented a staggering 36% of the missing women and girls reported to the National Crime Information Center. This figure starkly contrasts with the proportion of Black women and girls in the overall population, highlighting a deep and concerning issue of racial inequality in how missing persons are reported and investigated.

Black women are also six times more likely to be murdered than their white counterparts. This statistic reflects the extreme violence many Black women face in society—violence that is often overlooked or not taken seriously by law enforcement.

Furthermore, Black women and girls are disproportionately affected by human trafficking, where they face higher rates of exploitation, both within the United States and internationally. These young women are often preyed upon because of their vulnerability, which is compounded by a lack of resources and support when they go missing.

Advocacy: Organizations Making a Difference

Several organizations are working tirelessly to raise awareness and support the families of missing Black women and girls. These organizations offer resources, education, and platforms for advocacy.

  • The Black and Missing Foundation works to highlight cases of missing Black individuals, offering media training for families of missing persons and creating essential survival guides. The Foundation helps families navigate the often overwhelming process of dealing with law enforcement and the media when a loved one goes missing.
  • From the Bottom Up Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Black women and girls, providing crucial programs and services that focus on empowerment and safety. Their work is vital in addressing the root causes of disappearances, including systemic neglect and abuse.

Resources: Raising Awareness and Providing Support

In response to the growing crisis, governmental and non-governmental organizations are offering resources for those affected.

  • The Office of Justice Programs has hosted national convenings to raise awareness about the systemic issues behind the disproportionate number of missing Black individuals. These initiatives aim to bring together community leaders, law enforcement, and activists to create solutions and push for systemic change.
  • The Department of Justice provides a family survival guide for when a child or family member goes missing. This guide offers step-by-step instructions for parents and guardians, helping them navigate the immediate steps to take when faced with a missing loved one. It also provides resources for law enforcement, supporting them in addressing these cases more effectively.

The Impact: Addressing the Root Causes

The disproportionate number of missing Black women and girls speaks to broader systemic issues in society. Racial bias within law enforcement often results in Black individuals, especially women and girls, not receiving the same level of attention and urgency in missing persons cases as their white counterparts. Additionally, economic inequality and social neglect leave many Black women and girls vulnerable to trafficking, violence, and exploitation.

The lack of adequate resources for Black families, particularly those in low-income communities, contributes to the crisis. These families are often left without the support needed to ensure that their missing loved ones are given the attention they deserve. This inequality creates a culture where Black lives are treated as less valuable, and the urgency of their cases is often minimized.

Why This Crisis Must Be Recognized

The issue of missing Black women and girls is a profound injustice that highlights the failure of society to protect and value marginalized communities. Raising awareness, increasing media coverage, and providing resources are essential to addressing this crisis. We must work together to ensure that every person, regardless of race or background, is given the resources and support needed when they are in danger or go missing.

It’s essential that Black families are given the tools to protect their loved ones. Knowledge is power, and advocacy organizations like the Black and Missing Foundation and From the Bottom Up Foundation are fighting for the recognition and action that Black women and girls need.

We must continue to advocate for the safety of our communities, support those working to bring change, and demand that the lives of Black women and girls matter—both in life and when they go missing.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

The crisis of missing Black women and girls is a matter of life and death. As a community, we must fight against the systemic issues that perpetuate this tragedy. By raising awareness, providing support, and working together, we can protect our loved ones and bring about the systemic change needed to ensure Black women and girls are safe. Knowledge, advocacy, and unity are key to bringing about justice and ending this crisis.

#BlackWomenMatter #BlackGirlsMatter #MissingPersonsAwareness #JusticeForBlackWomen #EndSystemicRacism

Black women and girls are disproportionately missing in the U.S. due to systemic racism, violence, and trafficking. Learn why this crisis is often ignored and how advocacy groups are fighting for justice. #BlackWomenMatter #MissingBlackWomen #JusticeForBlackGirls

The Impact of Target’s DEI Rollback: A Call for Black Love, Unity, and Power

Published on by Black Royalty3 Comments

Love is the foundation of everything—especially when it comes to building strong families and leaving a lasting legacy. At Crowned in Black Love, we celebrate the beauty, resilience, and power of Black love and the families it nurtures. Together, we’re building a legacy that honors our history, our culture, and our collective strength.

Why We Take a Stand

As Black families, our love is both a source of strength and a means of resilience in a world that often undermines our worth. That’s why we’re calling on all of our community members to join us in the boycott against Target, Amazon, and other major corporations who are rolling back their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These actions impact us, our children, and our future. As we stand together in unity, we send a message: We will not be erased.

We want to protect and nurture our legacies, and to do that, we must remind these companies that Black love and Black families are the backbone of the economy, and they cannot ignore us.

A Call to Action: Stand with Us on February 28th

We’re calling for an economic blackout on February 28, 2025. On that day, we ask all of our community members to refrain from spending money at major retailers like Target, Amazon, and Walmart. This action is not just about boycotting—it’s about honoring our power and reminding these corporations that we matter.

When we unite and take action, we send a clear message: Black love and unity are forces to be reckoned with. Our choices and our voices will drive the change we want to see in the world.

Why We Boycott

The People’s Union is leading the call to boycott corporations that have chosen to roll back DEI initiatives under the leadership of individuals like former President Donald Trump. These decisions impact our communities by undermining the principles of equity and inclusion. On February 28, we are asking for one day of action.

This 24-hour boycott will help to remind corporate giants that Black love is powerful, and we are the ones who drive their success. We’re telling them that we will not continue to support businesses that do not support us.

Support Small, Support Local: Choose Love

If you need essential items or have an emergency, we encourage you to support Black-owned businesses or local community stores instead. On February 28, let’s invest in the businesses that support us, that uplift our families, and that invest in the future of Black love and prosperity.

Join Us: Building Legacies Through Love

Let’s celebrate love, unity, and power as Black families. When we stand together, we not only create change in the marketplace—we build a future filled with hope and opportunity. Together, we’ll create a legacy of Black love that lasts for generations. Join us on February 28th to take action, to raise our voices, and to show the world that Black love is here to stay.

🖤 On February 28, join the #EconomicBlackout and stand against the rollback of DEI initiatives by Target, Amazon, & Walmart. It’s time to honor #BlackLove, #BlackFamilies, and our collective power. Let’s build legacies of love. #BoycottDEI #BlackUnity

Target boycott

The Economic and Social Impact of Target’s Rollback on DEI Initiatives: A Boycott That Shook the Retail Giant

Published on by Black Royalty3 Comments

The recent boycott against Target has sent ripples through the retail world, reflecting a significant pushback against the company’s decision to roll back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This move has led to considerable financial and reputational consequences for the company, particularly in communities that had long supported its inclusivity efforts. The Black community, a key demographic for Target, has been vocal in expressing its dissatisfaction with this shift, and as a result, the company has faced a noticeable decline in sales, store traffic, and public perception. Let’s explore the multifaceted impact of the boycott, particularly for Black consumers, and the long-term implications for Target.

Target’s DEI Shift: A Strategic Move or a Mistake?

In February 2025, Target announced that it would conclude its three-year DEI goals, as well as its Racial Equity Action and Change (REACH) Initiatives. The company stated that this restructuring was intended to help it focus on “key areas” to drive growth and stay aligned with the shifting external landscape. This decision, however, did not sit well with many of its loyal customers, especially those from marginalized communities, including Black consumers who had viewed Target as an ally in the fight for racial equity and social justice.

Target had built its reputation on promoting diversity and supporting marginalized communities, particularly the Black community. Through initiatives like the REACH program, the company worked to amplify Black-owned businesses and create opportunities for economic empowerment within the African American community. These efforts were not just corporate strategies; they were seen as a direct commitment to addressing systemic racism and promoting equality. So when the company decided to roll back these initiatives, many felt that Target was turning its back on the people who had supported it the most.

The Economic Consequences: A Drop in Sales and Store Traffic

As the boycott gained momentum, the economic impact on Target became undeniable. During the period of the boycott, there was a marked decline in sales across both in-store and online channels. Reports indicated that Target saw a significant drop in quarterly earnings, with some estimates suggesting a reduction of several percentage points in sales. Data from foot traffic analysis companies also revealed a clear decline in customer visits to Target stores after the announcement of the DEI cutbacks.

This decline in store traffic was particularly concerning, as Target’s business model relies heavily on attracting customers into its physical locations, where they often make additional purchases beyond what they initially came for. The drop in store visits, coupled with the slowdown in online sales, painted a stark picture of the financial fallout from the boycott. For a retailer like Target, which had invested heavily in diversity initiatives to align with its customer base, this sudden decline in support underscored how vital inclusivity is to consumer loyalty.

The Impact on Target’s Relationship with the Black Community

For Black consumers, Target’s decision to scale back its DEI initiatives hit particularly hard. The African American community has long been a loyal and integral customer base for Target. As reported by the McKinsey Institute for Black Economic Mobility, Black Americans represent a significant portion of consumer spending—around $835 billion annually, or about 10% of total U.S. consumption. For Target, this demographic has been a cornerstone of its business, contributing billions of dollars in revenue each year.

However, by scaling back its DEI efforts, Target risked alienating this crucial customer base. Target had been seen as a leader in corporate social responsibility, particularly regarding racial equity. The retailer’s partnerships with Black-owned businesses, its support for Black-led causes, and its efforts to promote diversity within its workforce had helped build a strong bond with the Black community. These actions were not just about increasing sales; they were part of a broader commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of Black Americans.

When Target rolled back these initiatives, many saw it as a betrayal. For the Black community, it wasn’t just about the loss of a business partner; it was about the erosion of trust. The decision sent a message that the company was willing to scale back its support for racial equity in favor of more “market-friendly” initiatives. This shift in priorities left many Black consumers feeling undervalued and marginalized, as if their loyalty to the brand was no longer reciprocated. As a result, many vowed to stop shopping at Target until the company reinstated its previous DEI commitments.

The Role of Social Justice Leaders and Activists in the Boycott

The response to Target’s decision was swift and organized. Social justice leaders and influencers quickly mobilized on social media platforms, using their platforms to encourage a nationwide boycott of the retailer. As activists began calling for a boycott, they framed the issue as one of corporate responsibility. By withdrawing support for DEI, Target was not just failing to live up to its previous commitments; it was contributing to the growing trend of corporations stepping away from meaningful social justice work.

Ernest Owens, the author of The Case for Cancel Culture: How This Democratic Tool Works to Liberate Us All, highlighted how important it was for Black consumers to use their economic power to hold companies accountable. Owens emphasized that, while some may view DEI as a passing trend, the Black consumer base is a long-term and reliable demographic that can make or break a company’s success. As Owens noted, “When a company says that they’re not going to support DEI, it creates an environment that devalues the people who go to that store and benefit from DEI.”

The boycott was not just about the loss of a retail giant’s support for DEI; it was about sending a message to other companies that Black consumers will not silently accept corporate decisions that undermine their interests. By using cancel culture as a tool, activists and consumers hoped to force Target to reconsider its stance and reinstate the programs that had made it a beloved brand in the African American community.

Target’s Response: Will They Reconsider Their Decision?

In the aftermath of the boycott, Target has faced considerable pressure to reconsider its decision and reintroduce the DEI initiatives it had previously cut back. The company has yet to make any substantial moves in this direction, but the financial and reputational damage continues to mount. As the boycott spreads and more consumers choose to shop elsewhere, the long-term viability of Target’s strategy remains uncertain.

For now, it seems that Target’s decision to scale back its DEI initiatives has become a case study in how businesses can suffer when they fail to honor their commitments to diversity and inclusion. For the Black community, the message is clear: loyalty and financial support cannot be taken for granted. If Target wants to win back the trust of its African American customers, it will need to show that it is once again willing to invest in initiatives that promote racial equity and social justice.

The Bigger Picture: The Importance of DEI for Corporate Success

The situation with Target also underscores the importance of DEI efforts in modern business. Companies that choose to retreat from DEI commitments are not just making a short-term business decision—they are also risking long-term customer loyalty, especially among communities that expect companies to do more than just make a profit. As consumers increasingly demand that businesses take stands on social issues, those that fail to meet these expectations may find themselves facing boycotts, lost revenue, and reputational harm.

For Target, this boycott is a wake-up call. The company will need to carefully consider its next steps and decide whether to double down on its DEI commitments or continue down the path of retreat. Either way, the financial, social, and political implications of this decision will be felt for years to come.

A Wake-Up Call for Businesses

The Target boycott serves as a stark reminder that, in today’s consumer climate, businesses cannot afford to ignore the values and expectations of their customers. For Black consumers, DEI initiatives are not just a corporate trend—they are a vital part of ensuring that companies are committed to equality and social justice. Target’s decision to scale back these initiatives has had a profound impact, but it also represents an opportunity for the company to reconsider its priorities and rebuild the trust it has lost. As we continue to see boycotts and consumer pushback against companies that fail to prioritize DEI, it is clear that businesses will need to think long and hard about how they balance profitability with their responsibilities to the communities they serve.

The upcoming economic blackout on February 28, 2025 is a powerful statement against corporations retreating from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The People’s Union is calling for a nationwide boycott of major retailers like Target, Amazon, Walmart, and BestBuy to show these companies that the people have the power to make a difference. By standing united and participating in this 24-hour boycott, we can send a clear message that DEI matters to consumers.

If you believe in holding corporations accountable for their social responsibility, now is the time to take action. Join the movement—refuse to spend a dime on February 28th, support small local businesses, and help amplify the call for change. Let’s show these companies that the power lies with the people. Together, we can drive real impact!

The recent boycott against Target after they scaled back DEI efforts has led to financial losses and strained relationships with the Black community. Discover how this move shook the retail giant and its impact on the bottom line. #TargetBoycott #DEI #BlackConsumers

How Redlining Affected and Continues to Impact Black Communities

Published on by Black Royalty5 Comments

In the early 20th century, a practice known as redlining became a systematic tool of racial segregation and inequality in the United States. Though it’s been outlawed for decades, the effects of redlining are still felt by Black communities today. Redlining was a government-backed policy that denied Black families access to mortgages and homeownership in certain neighborhoods, based on their race. This practice not only trapped Black people in poverty but also created barriers to wealth-building, education, and community development that continue to impact Black families across generations.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history of redlining, how it shaped the landscape of racial inequality in housing, and why its legacy continues to affect Black communities in significant ways.

1. What Was Redlining?

Redlining refers to a discriminatory practice that started in the 1930s, where the federal government and private banks systematically denied mortgages to Black families and other communities of color. This was done by marking certain neighborhoods on maps with red ink, which indicated that these areas were “too risky” for investment. The reasoning behind this “risk” was often tied to the racial makeup of the neighborhood rather than actual economic factors.

The Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC), a federal agency, was responsible for creating these redlined maps, which were then used by banks to decide whether to approve home loans. Neighborhoods predominantly inhabited by Black families or other people of color were often marked as “hazardous,” making it nearly impossible for residents to purchase homes or secure loans for home improvements.

In short, redlining kept Black families from owning homes in areas with higher property values, greater access to quality schools, and better employment opportunities.

2. The Effects of Redlining on Black Communities

The long-term effects of redlining have been profound and continue to affect Black communities today. Here’s how this practice shaped the experiences of Black families:

  • Denial of Homeownership: Homeownership has long been a key way for Americans to build wealth. For Black families, however, redlining blocked access to homeownership in desirable neighborhoods, locking them out of the chance to build equity. As a result, Black families were often forced to rent in areas with lower property values, which limited their ability to accumulate generational wealth.
  • Disinvestment in Neighborhoods: Because redlined areas were deemed “unfit” for investment, many of these neighborhoods were systematically neglected by both government and private institutions. This led to a lack of infrastructure, poor schools, and underfunded community services. Without access to resources or investment, neighborhoods that were predominantly Black faced economic stagnation.
  • Education and Employment Barriers: Redlining not only kept Black families from owning homes in better neighborhoods but also contributed to a cycle of poverty. Schools in redlined neighborhoods were often underfunded, which resulted in a lower quality of education. This lack of access to quality education made it more difficult for Black children to access higher education and better job opportunities, further entrenching the cycle of inequality.
  • Health and Safety Impacts: Redlined neighborhoods often lacked investment in health services, public parks, and other amenities that contribute to overall well-being. These areas were also more likely to be located near industrial zones, exposing residents to pollution and health hazards. As a result, Black communities living in these areas faced higher rates of chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, and lower life expectancy.

3. How Redlining Continues to Affect Black Communities Today

The effects of redlining did not disappear with the official end of the practice in the 1960s. In fact, its legacy still shapes housing patterns and wealth distribution today.

  • Wealth Inequality: Homeownership remains one of the primary ways that American families build wealth. Because redlining denied Black families the opportunity to purchase homes in areas that appreciated in value, many Black families were never able to build the wealth that could have been passed down through generations. Today, Black Americans have less wealth on average than white Americans, with a significant portion of that wealth gap stemming from the lack of homeownership opportunities.
  • Segregation of Communities: Though redlining ended decades ago, the legacy of segregated housing patterns remains. Many predominantly Black neighborhoods continue to face high levels of poverty and limited access to quality education and healthcare. Redlined areas are often still underfunded, and neighborhoods remain segregated by race and income. As a result, Black communities still face barriers to upward mobility.
  • Access to Loans and Mortgages: Discriminatory practices similar to redlining still exist today. Black families often face greater challenges when applying for loans or mortgages, even in areas where redlining maps no longer exist. Studies show that Black applicants are more likely to be denied home loans and are often charged higher interest rates than white applicants, even when they have similar credit scores.
  • Neighborhood Disinvestment: The lack of investment in historically redlined neighborhoods has left many Black communities struggling to catch up. Even in cities where gentrification is happening in other parts of town, many redlined neighborhoods remain economically depressed. The disinvestment that started with redlining has created long-lasting effects on local businesses, public services, and housing stock, making it difficult for these communities to thrive.

4. What Can Be Done to Address the Legacy of Redlining?

While the practice of redlining is illegal today, the impact it has had on Black communities is still felt. To truly combat the legacy of redlining, several actions must be taken:

  • Affordable Housing Policies: Policies that promote affordable housing, such as increasing funding for housing subsidies or incentivizing the construction of affordable homes in underfunded areas, can help provide access to homeownership for Black families.
  • Investment in Redlined Neighborhoods: Revitalizing historically redlined neighborhoods through targeted investment in infrastructure, schools, healthcare, and businesses is critical. By reinvesting in these communities, we can help break the cycle of disinvestment and provide opportunities for growth and development.
  • Addressing Discriminatory Lending Practices: To combat the lingering effects of discriminatory lending, we must enforce anti-discrimination laws that ensure Black families have equal access to mortgages and loans. Support for policies like the Fair Housing Act and Community Reinvestment Act can help reduce modern-day discrimination in the housing market.
  • Education and Workforce Development: Investing in education and workforce development programs in historically marginalized communities can help create economic opportunities for Black families. By providing access to quality education and job training, we can help lift entire communities out of poverty.
  • Legal and Policy Advocacy: Continued advocacy from civil rights organizations and lawmakers is essential to hold institutions accountable for discriminatory practices and push for policies that address the legacy of redlining.

Conclusion: The Fight for Housing Equality Continues

Redlining was a deliberate attempt to deny Black families access to homeownership and the opportunities that come with it. Though the practice is no longer legal, its legacy continues to affect Black communities, contributing to wealth inequality, segregation, and lack of opportunity. Understanding the impact of redlining is essential in addressing the persistent racial disparities that still exist today.

To make meaningful progress, we must advocate for policies that promote housing equality, investment in disenfranchised communities, and an end to discriminatory lending practices. Only by confronting the history and legacy of redlining can we begin to build a more equitable future for Black families and communities.

Redlining may have ended decades ago, but its legacy continues to impact Black communities today—limiting wealth, opportunities, and equality. Learn why addressing redlining’s impact is crucial for justice. #HousingEquality #BlackCommunities