11 Black-Owned Denver Family Businesses to Support Now
by Karly Wood
Red Tricycle is an anti-racist company against the systemic racism toward Black people and all people of color. We stand for justice, equality and humanity, and we support our Black families, co-workers, partners and community. One of the ways to do that directly is by supporting Black-owned businesses, many of which have already been affected by the coronavirus outbreak. We’ve rounded up some of our favorites below.
Head to TeaLee’s Tea House & Bookstore where it's nothing but high quality loose leaf teas, food and specialty drinks. The afro-centric atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and even enjoying a beer or wine.
Lakewood's African Grill and Bar is the place to be if you want authentic cuisine. The family-owned restaurant sources their ingredients from their native Africa, and whips up vegan, vegetarian and halal meat that is unsurpassed! Enjoy Akwaaba, Moimoi, Chakalaka stew and plenty of other Ghana-inspired meals.
Whittier Cafe is Denver's first African espresso bar and social justice cafe. Enjoy the exclusively African coffee and espresso bar that serves, hand-crafted coffee, sandwiches, African beers and wines while sharing in the lending library and sipping java on the patio.
Welton Street Cafe has been serving Caribbean Cuisine and Soul Food for over 20 years. Diners can get a taste of fried fish, rum cake and jerk chicken in this hot spot right off the light rail.
Matter Design is Denver’s only design studio, manufactory, and design (book) shop––all in one! Matter specializes in Typography, Design, Design Education, and Resistance-focused books and products, and customers can shop tons of products that also include wearables, games and stationary.
SOAR's main goal is to help adolescents conquer difficulties and grow to become successful adults in their community. Programs include community mentorship, counseling, advising, and tutoring as well as workshops, shadowing programs, one-on-one and group counseling, life skills education, and college prep.
The mission of the Black American West Museum & Heritage Center is to promote an understanding of the role that African Americans played in the settlement and growth of the western United States through its collections, programs and exhibits.
Rachael Harding of Miss Rachael's Dance has been teaching for over 20 years. Her studio focuses on teaching dance to littles of all ages, and providing an experience that helps them grow physically and mentally as dancers.
Family-owned and operated, Yellow Door Collective is an eco-conscious small business. Each of their goods are handmade in Denver, and they specialize in fabric work and repurposing. Many of the designs utilize African diasporic patterns and fabrics, and you can shop from tons of goods that include pillows, bags, hats, jewelry, kitchen and kids!
New dessert store Sweet Sweetz is doing more than just serving treats––they are focused on supporting the local community by providing a space for families and youth to come together in a positive way. You can enjoy tons of homemade baked goods like pies and cobblers, in addition to plenty of Blue Bell ice cream!
Tween boutique is more than just outfitting your budding young ladies in fashionable clothes––it's about empowerment, too! Preteens can shop everything from accessories and shoes to dresses and jackets, with uniquely hand branded products that are bright and beautiful––just like your tween.
