Black Friday’s Real Origins: Debunking Myths and Building Black Empowerment

As Black Friday approaches, it’s important to address a pervasive myth that continues to surface within the Black community: the belief that Black Friday originated from the sale of enslaved people in the United States. While this idea has gained traction, it lacks any historical evidence. Let’s separate fact from fiction and focus on the broader implications of how we spend our money during this season.

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The Truth About Black Friday’s Origins

The misconception that Black Friday traces back to slavery is not supported by history. This falsehood unnecessarily adds to the horrific realities of slavery—realities that are already painful enough without embellishment. As we honor our ancestors and their experiences, it’s crucial to rely on facts, not myths.

So, where does the term “Black Friday” actually come from?

• 1869 Financial Crisis: The earliest known use of the term Black Friday refers to a financial crisis on September 24, 1869. Two financiers attempted to corner the gold market, leading to a market crash—a far cry from anything related to slavery.
• 1950s and 1960s Philadelphia Usage: Philadelphia police coined the term to describe the chaotic day after Thanksgiving, marked by traffic jams and packed streets due to an influx of shoppers and tourists.
• 1980s Retail Spin: By the 1980s, retailers began promoting Black Friday as the day their businesses transitioned from being “in the red” (operating at a loss) to “in the black” (turning a profit) due to holiday shopping surges.

These origins paint a picture far removed from the false narrative tying Black Friday to the sale of enslaved people.

Why the Myth Persists

The horrors of slavery are undeniable, and the system of human trafficking was a constant atrocity—not confined to a single day. Enslaved individuals were sold whenever and wherever profit could be made, from Sunday mornings to Tuesday afternoons. This truth is more than horrific enough without the need for fabricated connections to Black Friday.

A Call to Action: Building Economic Power

The real issue isn’t the myth but how the Black community engages with Black Friday and consumer spending. Each year, the Black community spends $1.8 trillion, with $8 to $10 billion of that spent on Black Friday alone. Yet, only 3 to 5% of that money circulates within Black-owned businesses.

This is the crux of the matter: how can we use our dollars to uplift our community?

• Support Black-Owned Businesses: Choose businesses that reinvest in the Black community, hire Black workers, and support Black youth.
• Invest in Community Growth: Spend your money with organizations and companies, like Urban Intellectuals, that prioritize Black history, culture, and empowerment.
• Shift Spending Habits: Challenge the norm of funneling money into systems built on the exploitation of our ancestors. Instead, build economic cycles that benefit future generations.

Change Starts With Us

This Black Friday, let’s do things differently. Instead of perpetuating myths, let’s focus on building power and supporting businesses that align with our values. Every dollar spent is a vote for the kind of world we want to create.

Are you ready to make a change? Let’s commit to spending intentionally and investing in a brighter future for our community. Share your thoughts in the comments, and join us in spreading real history, culture, and empowerment.

Love, peace, and power to the people. Let’s get it!