City Commission Proclaim August Black Business Month

Mayor Teri Johnston and the Key West City Commission proclaimed August Black Business Month.

National Black Business Month was founded in 2004 to recognize Black-owned businesses, highlight their importance to communities and the national economy, and encourage their continued development and success.

"Promoting and supporting Black-owned businesses is a critical step in addressing the racial wealth gap that persists in our country," reads the proclamation, "rooted in centuries of slavery, segregation, and other institutionalized forms of social and economic oppression."

Chef Warren Leamard, owner of Destination Catering and Events, accepted the proclamation wearing his white chef's coat.

"Generally, when I dress like this, I'm going to serve," he said. "But today, I'm being served."

"Warren is a model for many upcoming Black businesspeople we see in our community," said Commissioner Clayton Lopez. "Thank you for being that leader."

In the photo: Commissioners Lissette Carey and Jimmy Weekley, Chef Warren Leamard, Vice Mayor Sam Kaufman, and Commissioners Clayton Lopez and Billy Wardlow. Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover was in attendance via Zoom.