I am proud to sit on the James Beard Foundation Board of Trustees and represent the critical voices of chefs across the nation, and I am particularly proud of how the Foundation quickly mobilized in support of the food and beverage industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, we have a plan to not only survive this devastating pandemic—but also rebuild so that we can thrive as a more equitable, diverse, and successful industry for good.
As the chef and owner of an independently operated restaurant, Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, California, and because of my journey overcoming the obstacles that so many entrepreneurs and workers of color in the hospitality industry face, the topics of investment, mentorship, and advocacy for BIPOC communities are incredibly close to my heart. And there has never been a more urgent need for support than in this moment of distress for so many.
That is why, today, I am asking you to join me in investing in the future of Black and Indigenous independent restaurant owners.
On this Giving Tuesday, the James Beard Foundation is launching our 2020 End of Year fundraising campaign. All funds raised through the campaign through December 31 will benefit the James Beard Foundation Investment Fund for Black and Indigenous Americans.
We must act now. Your gift will help provide an emergency relief grant and mentorship to those businesses most at risk of closing their doors.
Why is your support so critical?
- Restaurants are permanently closing at a rate higher than any other industry.
- Black and Indigenous-owned businesses are closing at disproportionate rates and historically lack access to the capital and resources necessary to survive crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Black and Indigenous people in the United States face systemic barriers and racial inequities that prevent many from moving into positions of leadership and/or ownership in the food and beverage industry
- Restaurants are the cornerstones of our communities, some pump as much as 60% of their money back into their local economies with ripple effects felt far and wide.
Join me and the JBF Investment Fund Leadership Committee to ensure independent restaurants survive the pandemic by making a donation today. Your commitment will support the Black and Indigenous voices in our industry, not just in light of the pandemic, but for good.
Tanya Holland is the chef/owner of Brown Sugar Kitchen and a trustee of the James Beard Foundation. Learn more at tanyaholland.com.
