Tops Markets’ Post

Honoring Freedom and Championing Diversity As we commemorate Juneteenth, MNCREW reaffirms our unwavering commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This significant day marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward justice and equality for all. At MNCREW, we align with the CREW Network’s dedication to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging. Our global network thrives on diverse voices, which enrich our business connections and drive innovation. We are inspired by the collaborative spirit that breaks down barriers and accelerates growth for our chapters, members, and partners. To learn more about #Juneteenth, or if you’re interested in attending local Minnesota events, check out this list of opportunities below. As with other leadership and allyship opportunities, we recommend that you invite one or more members, work colleagues, or friends to join you! ➡️ Attend one or more of the activities listed on the City of Minneapolis Juneteenth Events and City of Saint Paul’s Juneteenth Events ➡️ Pick up a book on Juneteenth that interests you at one of these #BlackOwned bookstores. Check out: Black Garnet Books, Strive Bookstore, and Planting People Growing Justice Press and Bookstore ➡️ Support local #BlackOwnedBusiness listed on the Minnesota Black-Owned Business. Search: Directory and the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce

There is so much to celebrate and be aware of this month! What are you celebrating in May? #SustainableBusiness #SocialEnterprise #SocialImpact #SmallBusiness #BusinessStrategy

I had the amazing experience of hearing Fawn Weaver, Founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest, speak via the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce tonight. There is a lot we can all learn from the Uncle Nearest Story. Here are some of my key takeaways paraphrased: - On taking the type of risks she has had to take to build Uncle Nearest, "I feel fear. It sits with me in my back seat. But it does not altar my decisions."  - On the Uncle Nearest Journey: "The gulf between the creation and execution of an idea can be vast. Some people's future perspective is focused on fear. The opposite is hope or optimism. I focus on hope and I use my faith to get me through." - On outside societal issues affecting equality "I don’t respond until I find the hope in the situation." - On the make-up of their customer base, "We’ve grown the brand by bringing new people in. Women and people of color make up 70% of the US population. All the other brands were focused on 30% of the market. We have 50-50 female sales without having a low proof bourbon. When you visit our distillery you see people of all races, backgrounds, etc." - On inclusion: "You shouldn't need programs or mandates for DEI. You should do it so that you have access to the entire employee pool and can sale to everyone. Jack Daniels employed 50% Black people in the 19th century. That was a higher percentage than the make-up of Lynchburg at the time."

2024 was a year to challenge the status quo on the state of Black wellness. More than just mental and physical health, wellness also includes economic well-being, spiritual connectivity, spending time with family and loved ones, and even the foods we consume. As communities across Washington state continued to deal with the impacts of COVID-19, Christina and Keith Blocker worked with nonprofits, community activists, and local governments to spark conversations about wellness for Black communities and opportunities to create rising change. The result of this dialogue is Elevate Black Wellness (EBW). And this month, Christina and Keith will share the story of EBW at the Washington State Public Health Association's Annual Conference in Yakima. With the theme of ""Cultivating Social Justice,"" we think it is an ideal moment to highlight partnerships across the state, including proclamations in 11 communities across Washington--and the critical importance of continuing this work in the future. Curious about EBW? Visit elevateblackwellness.com to learn more about it, and how you can join us to Elevate Black Wellness in 2025 (and beyond!) #blackwellness #elevateblackwellness #blackmentalhealth #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #washington #apha #wspha

Do you understand the Art of Advocacy? The Power of Using Art for Impactful Messaging. Well, once brands do and partner with powerful, authentic, down-to-earth advocates...ahh, the manifestation of visioning unfolds. Be Savvy; Click Now:

Giving Tuesday is just around the corner, but why wait? This year, let’s get a head start on changing lives and empowering Black workers in Los Angeles to secure fair wages, safe workplaces, and economic equity! When you give to the Los Angeles Black Worker Center, you’re investing in a future where every worker has a voice and a seat at the table. 🌟 Your support means: More job training and support programs for Black workers Stronger advocacy for policies that protect and uplift our community Resources to help us find a new home to grow and serve even more workers Why wait until Giving Tuesday? Start today and join the movement that’s building a better future. #BlackWorkerPower #WorkforceWarriors #GiveBlack #RacialJustice #LosAngeles #LABWC

📈 Celebrating Black Business Month 📈 As we celebrate this month take time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Black-owned businesses to our economy and communities. 💡 Why It Matters: Black-owned businesses are vital to economic growth, innovation, and community development. Supporting these businesses helps to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in our marketplace. Together, let’s uplift and support Black-owned businesses, not just this month, but every day. Tag a Black business owner who inspires you, I’ll go first! LaTanya Orr, Wendy Calvert 💐 #BlackBusinessMonth #SupportBlackBusiness #EconomicGrowth #CommunityDevelopment #DiversityEquityInclusion

Listen to Alex and Macy! See the link below!

One of the best things about working for ustwo is that we set out to make real impact. Check out the report below ⬇️ to see how ustwo's first year of partnership with Where are the Black Designers? has begun to address systemic inequalities in design.