Important Message from the NAWBO Columbus President

In the past several weeks, NAWBO Columbus has learned of targeted threats to a number of our black and brown-owned businesses throughout the community. There is a concern that the threats could intensify as we near Inauguration Day. I write to each of you to affirm our commitments as a Chapter and to provide you with resources for the coming days.

First and foremost, NAWBO Columbus and its Board of Directors reaffirm our condemnation of racial injustice. We have not and will never tolerate racism on any level. We fully and unequivocally support our minority-owned businesses and our black and brown sisters and brothers. Our organization exists to empower women business owners to overcome challenges and fully realize their true potential, making their mark on the world.  This includes ALL of our sisters of every race, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, creed, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status and socioeconomic status.  We also exist to support and stand in solidarity to denounce the marginalization of ANYONE.

When we learned of the recent targeted threats and attacks facing several minority business owners, we were saddened and shocked. We were called into action and realized that the extreme challenges facing minority owned businesses continue to persist and are pervasive in our culture. We continue to be your ally – no matter what.

We ask our minority owned businesses to be vigilant in the coming days. Avoid the downtown area as protests are expected to occur through Inauguration Day. If you experience any threats or know of suspicious or racist activity, reach out immediately to the Central Ohio African American Chamber of Commerce (COAACC) at 614-377-4874(call or text; they are available day or night). Additional resources include:

• Monitor Mayor Ginther’s Press Conferences and the City of Columbus Facebook page for pertinent news updates and advice: https://www.facebook.com/MayorGinther
• Call the City of Columbus Tip Line for reports of suspicious activity: (877) 647-4683; or you may call (614) 645-4545 for non-emergency reports.
• Follow COAACC on their Facebook page for updates: https://www.facebook.com/centralohioaac

NAWBO Columbus and our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee will be monitoring news and alerts and we will share updates with you as they become available. Please reach out to us directly should you or anyone in your businesses be the target of racism or violence so that we may directly assist.

We are here for you.

Michelle Casper

NAWBO Columbus President

mcasper@salawus.com

Direct line: 380.205.6210