As far as I’m concerned, everyday is Black History Month and Financial Literacy Month (which is in April). When I read about how amazing our ancestors were, how they endured (and overcame) such inequality, I get fired up AND pissed.
It’s almost as if we’re reliving the same cycle of deliberate financial obliteration with the recent cuts to DEI, rollbacks on financial support for small-businesses, and the compiled attack on teaching about race and racism in schools.
But we’re in a different place in 2025 because we actually have the tools for self-determination and our history of resilience and excellence in this country prove it.
Today, I want us to honor the legacy of Black Wall Street and get the financial nuggets that we can apply to our lives, businesses, and communities today.
Reclaiming Black Wall Street: Lessons for Generational Wealth
The story of Black Wall Street—a thriving Black community in Tulsa, Oklahoma—is both inspiring and sobering. In the early 20th century, Greenwood, often referred to as “Black Wall Street,” showcased the economic power and resilience of Black Americans. Despite systemic racism and devastating violence, the achievements of this community remain a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we invest in ourselves and our communities.
The Rise of Black Wall Street
Greenwood was home to successful Black-owned businesses, including banks, hotels, theaters, and law firms. Residents emphasized education, entrepreneurship, and community support, creating a self-sustaining economy that prospered even in the face of segregation.
Lessons for Today:
- Support Black-Owned Businesses: Just as Greenwood’s economy thrived through community investment, we can strengthen our communities by prioritizing Black-owned businesses and services.
Actionable Tip: Commit to spending a portion of your income with Black-owned businesses each month. Apps and directories like Official Black Wall Street can help you find them. - Build Financial Independence: Many Greenwood residents were entrepreneurs, demonstrating the importance of owning assets and creating multiple income streams.
Actionable Tip: Consider starting a side hustle or investing in assets like real estate or stocks to diversify your income and build wealth. - Invest in Education: Education was a cornerstone of Greenwood’s success. Today, financial education is equally critical for building generational wealth.
Actionable Tip: Read books, attend workshops, or take online courses to improve your financial literacy and pass that knowledge on to your family.
The Fall and the Future
The destruction of Black Wall Street during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre was a tragic reminder of the systemic barriers faced by Black communities. However, the legacy of resilience and innovation lives on, inspiring us to rebuild and reclaim our financial power.
Your Next Step: Honor the legacy of Black Wall Street by taking deliberate actions to strengthen your financial future. Support Black-owned businesses, prioritize financial education, and invest in assets that create long-term wealth.
Together, we can build a modern-day Black Wall Street—one step at a time.
Have you grabbed your copy of 9 Steps to Building Black Wealth?
