Woonsocket Radio News Room

Amo Discusses Economic Opportunity with Black Small Business Owners on Juneteenth 

 

Providence, R.I. – Today, in observance of Juneteenth, Congressman Gabe Amo (RI-01) participated in a roundtable discussion with local Black small business owners and entrepreneurs on the sidelines of the first-ever Taste of Juneteenth at Farm Fresh Rhode Island. The free-flowing conversation featured 14 local small business owners and touched on various ways for minority-owned business to compete on a level playing field as they overcome lingering systemic barriers to opportunity.

 

“Juneteenth Freedom Day is a reminder of our history and a recognition of our progress,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “As the son of a small business owner, it was my privilege to discuss how to support a diverse workforce and build opportunity for Rhode Island‘s Black business owners. I thank the roundtable participants for sharing their stories and for doing the hard work necessary to ensure that minority-owned businesses can thrive and create economic prosperity for all.”

 

ALL PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE

 

BACKGROUND

On November 13, 2023, Congressman Gabe Amo was sworn in as the first Black Member of Congress to represent Rhode Island. Since assuming office, he has been committed to uplifting economic opportunity for women- and minority-owned businesses, particularly as they have historically been excluded from pipelines to prosperity.

 

On June 19th, 2024, local Rhode Island organizations — Hope & Main, MUSE RI, Juneteenth RI, and AFReats — invited Rhode Islanders to observe the new State holiday of Juneteenth by exploring the foodways of the local, Black culinary community. This inaugural event was held from noon to 4:00p at Farm Fresh Rhode Island. The event brought together more than two dozen local chefs, makers, and artisans to create an immersive experience that celebrated the vibrant and flavorful traditions of the African Diaspora.

 

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