Black Women's Expo celebrates 30 years
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Black Women's Expo. Photo courtesy of the Black Women's Expo
It's a celebration at this year's Black Women's Expo.
Why it matters: The three-day expo, now known as "BWe Next," is the nation's longest-running annual exposition for Black women and their families. It amplifies sisterhood within the African American community by focusing on Black art, culture, fashion, and health and wellness.
Flashback: The expo was originally named "An Expo for Today's Black Woman" and was created to showcase products to African American women in the city.
- Oprah Winfrey, Patti LaBelle, the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., Robin Roberts and Regina King are a few celebrities who have previously spoken at the event.
Zoom in: Guests this year will include former Chicago news reporter Tamron Hall, gospel recording artist Marvin Sapp, R&B singer Raheem Devaughn.
- Attendees can attend seminars to help small businesses and sample and shop from a range of well-known beauty brands.
- It also gives businesses an opportunity to network and showcase their products or services. Carly's Mini Bazaar, De Lovely Skin Co., Gaia Gems and Eventnoire are among the companies with booths this year.
What they're saying: "This show has so much history, and we are trying to pack a gigantic celebration into three days. Now that we have reached this noteworthy milestone, the Expo has to be unforgettably special," CEO and expo founder Merry Green said in a press release.
💠Moyo's thought bubble: I've attended the expo since the early 2000s, and I've found it quite resourceful for all ages. It's a space not only for women of color, but for those interested in learning or supporting the African American community.
- I've discovered Black comic writers, chefs and artists I wouldn't have known of if not for this event. I was also fortunate enough to meet Aris Singleton, CEO of my favorite hair brand tgin, which is a Chicago-based company.
If you go: It's Friday and Saturday from 10am-7pm and Sunday from 11am-6pm at McCormick Place.
- Tickets start at $30.