National Black Business Month is celebrated every August in the United States to recognize and support Black-owned businesses. This annual observance was established in 2004 to highlight contributions of Black entrepreneurs and the importance of their businesses to the economy and communities.
Trinity Health Of New England marked National Black Business Month throughout the region by holding Culture and Commerce Vendor Markets at all of the hospitals in the ministry.
Black-owned businesses contribute billions of dollars and employ millions of people. The recognition also brings attention to the unique challenges Black business owners face, such as access to capital and resources. The observance encourages consumers and communities to actively support Black-owned business through patronage, promotion and investment.
Trinity Health Of New England marked National Black Business Month throughout the region by holding Culture and Commerce Vendor Markets at all of the hospitals in the ministry on August 1.
In Waterbury, Saint Mary’s Hospital cafeteria was transformed into a space dedicated to “Culture and Commerce.” The hospital’s first vendor fair celebrating Black businesses gave 14 vendors from across the state the opportunity to share their specialties. From photography to home fragrance, to real estate, there was something for everyone.
In the Springfield Market, Mercy Medical Center and Johnson Memorial Hospital also celebrated Black Business Month with a vendor fair in their main lobbies. The vendors brought a varied selection of goods and colleagues and visitors had the opportunity to purchase items including candles, collectibles, books, cosmetics, and jewelry.
Saint Francis proudly hosted a wide range of vendors including their own Chaplain Winston. From vibrant plants and jewelry to inspirational clothing, soothing candles and more – the fair was a beautiful showcase of talent and entrepreneurship. Mount Sinai also hosted an event, showcasing vendors exhibiting jewelry, clothing and more.
"The inaugural Vendor Fair celebrating Black businesses was more than an event, it was a celebration of culture, creativity and collective community,” said Cheryl Hilton, Regional Manager of Community Health and Well Being, Trinity Health Of New England.
