Starting February 1, Black History Month focuses attention on the limitless contributions of African Americans to the United States. The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce is proud to observe Black History Month and recognize the cultural significance of the African American community in Chicagoland and across the United States.

We must also recognize that throughout history, the Black community has endured severe injustice, human rights violations, and continued systemic oppression. As a collective, it is our nation’s duty to empower and enrich this community through compassion, empathy, and tangible support.

The Chicagoland Chamber supports the continued discussion on Black history, culture, and their positive impacts across society, while leading the business community in transformative diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

The Chicagoland Chamber will always support Black businesses, friends, and neighbors. Together, the Chamber and Chicagoland’s Black community will continue to work together to foster economic growth and prosperity.

“As a Black man in one of the most segregated cities in the United States, it’s important to the growth and development of our nation to have a month dedicated to Black Excellence. I am proud to work with the Chicagoland Chamber and continue this path that so many African American leaders have laid down the foundation for. For me, the fight for equality is a journey that we all must continue to strive for as we continue to progress as a country. It’s especially important to have conversations circulating regarding; economic growth, Black ownership, and equality in education, as these things will assist our Black communities with an overall quality of life. Black History Month truly means the world to me, understandingly so, we have a long way to go, but I’d say we’re off to a good start.”

Jay Morris
Coordinator, Events

“Every year during Black History Month, I learn something new about the contributions that Black Americans have made to our country that empowers me. I recently learned that a Black woman, Dr. Kizzmekia S. Corbett was the lead scientists on the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine team. My education and appreciation for those contributions, especially as a parent, are more important now than ever before. I appreciate the Chamber for being an organization that recognizes the importance of inclusion of all cultures in business and for empowering me to contribute to the Black business community during a time in history when support is most needed.“

Adrienne McFarland
Coordinator, Illinois Small Business Development Center

“We’ve come a long way but there is still a lot of ground work that has to be laid before we can consider our society as truly equitable. Honoring and remembering America’s rich Black history for one month out of every year only scratches the surface. I’m proud to work for an organization that understands this.“

Alex Krebs
Manager, Marketing