As policy discussions and programming happened all around the Walter E. Washington Convention Center during the 55th Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), Black businesses took center stage, filling the convening’s massive exhibit hall Sept. 16-19 with wares while also promoting the power of cooperative economics.
“I’m supporting Black businesses, being supported by the wonderful crowd, and I am introducing my line, which includes five different collections, to the beautiful ladies and gentlemen of the [ALC] Marketplace,” Setor Attipoe, founder of Salt & Pearl Jewelry, told The Washington Informer.
A brand featuring eye-catching, pearl jewelry with creative designs that can be worn for any occasion, Attipoe’s booth captured the luxury feel of the brand overall, engaging attendees to try on and purchase pieces. These are not just the classic string of pearls, they stand out and make a stunning statement.
“I decided to make a line that really celebrates the modern woman who loves the girls, but also wants really modern jewelry that’s fashion forward, a little edgy, a little urban, a little funky at times, and really cool,” she explained, as a conference attendee was preparing to purchase a couple of pieces from her featured collections.
For Attipoe, who was a first-time vendor during the conference, participating in the annual conference was particularly critical as she works to grow her business.
“[The ALC] is so important because of all of the heavyweight attendees that are coming,” she said. “It’s where people come to discover new Black-owned businesses, new brands, to network, and so for me, it was very important to be here.”
Promoting Black economic power is a critical part of CBCF’s work and mission even beyond the annual conference.
“We supply the fuel for you to fight systemic injustice, to advance racial equity, to build economic prosperity, to honor the development of human potential in the Black community,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, CBCF president and CEO, during the Phoenix Awards, the ALC’s gala and major fundraiser, on Sept. 19. “We are proud of that work and we are proud of our leaders.”
The 55th ALC, hosted as the CBCF marks 50 years, furthered the foundation’s goals to combat economic disparities — from forums and sessions about financial literacy and building generational wealth to speakers like civil rights attorney Ben Crump encouraging an audience of hundreds of captive listeners to support Black businesses.
“Every day I’m going to count my Black dollars circulating in my Black community,” Crump said. “If I need a lawyer, I’m going to find a Black lawyer to work with in some way. If I need a doctor, I’m going to go find a Black doctor. I need an insurance agent, I’m going to find a Black insurance agent. … If I’m going to buy a house, I’m going to find a Black realtor.”
With three days in as a first-time ALC vendor, Attipoe told The Informer that participating in the ALC was definitely the right decision as she continues to grow her business and build community.
“I’m so excited. It has been a phenomenal show,” Attipoe continued, “and I will definitely be back.”
