What: Macy's has launched a series of initiatives to support Black-owned businesses and further inclusivity

Why it is important: how Macy’s responds to activists’ push for back-owned brands

Macy’s Inc. is putting the spotlight on Black-owned brands and Black creatives in its stores and on its website, and encouraging donations to support Black Girls Code and the United Negro College Fund.

“As we honour Black culture and Black brilliance, we are intensifying our commitment to the growth and advancement of Black-owned businesses, creators, changemakers and young talent — who are all woven into the fabric of the Black experience,” said Shawn Outler, Macy’s chief diversity officer.

Throughout February, which is Black History Month, customers can round up their in-store purchases to the nearest dollar amount and donate the change (up to 99 cents) to benefit Black Girls Code, which focuses on technology education for African American girls to join STEM fields, and UNCF (the United Negro College Fund), which focuses on getting African American students ready for college.

In other initiatives, Macy’s, with Cosmetic Executive Women’s Indie 26, is launching 11 Black-owned, award-winning beauty brands in February. Store windows this month will be displaying art by artists coming from pop, hip hop and graffiti culture.

In March, Macy’s will launch “Icons of Style” collaborations with Black creatives and brands found only at the store. The retailer is also continuing its Workshop at Macy’s program this spring, helping diverse and female-owned vendor businesses scale up at retail.

PR: Macy's honors black history

WWD: Macy’s highlighting black brands and creatives

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