Pharrell Williams Calls Out Companies For Not Investing In People Of Colour And Their Businesses
Speaking during his keynote speech at the Urban League of Hampton Roads’annual Martin Luther King, Jr. awards program on Monday singer-songwriter Pharrell Williams issued a call-to-action for businesses to pledge a more firm commitment to Black entrepreneurs.
Although Williams applauded the “smart” companies that have already taken a stand and implanted different ways they can help founders of color, he didn’t hesitate to explain what more needs to be done.
He said: “There’s much more work to be done to achieve anything that resembles equality, business — thank God businesses are finally catching on.
“Corporations know that inclusive businesses are good businesses, right? Collectively big businesses are pouring billions of dollars into programs directed toward people of color — not all businesses, but the smart ones, the ones that will be here in 50 years.”
The music mogul went on to highlight some of the historic wins that have taken place in the Black community, including the fact that Historically Black Colleges & Universities are now receiving historic donations nationwide, and Juneteenth is finally recognized as a national holiday after four decades.
He called these a “tiny, tiny demonstration of progress.”
Williams went on to say: “Why are these things happening, you might ask? Well, because it’s big business and also it’s good business. Well, also they need us. Why else? Because people finally gain an understanding and an awareness of HBCUs and Juneteenth and their significance.
“Most people were informed and aware of the importance to us, and so they stepped up. If I can do anything here today, I hope I can drive awareness of something that all of you already know.”