By Williamena Kwapo | OBSERVER Staff Writer
Members of the California Legislative Black Caucus, local officials and supporters convened Jan. 11 for the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast at the Town and Country Event Center in Sacramento.
This year’s event was centered on Black entrepreneurship and its pivotal role in fostering positive social change, with a goal of moving forward Dr. King’s dream of economic advancement.
Caucus Chair Lori D. Wilson expressed the unique advantage of being in the Golden State, highlighting multiple opportunities available for leveraging and advancing Dr. King’s dream.
“We see systemic injustice, racial discrimination, gender inequality, and how all of it intersects with economic inequality,” Wilson said as she and entrepreneur Kwame Anku engaged in a candid fireside chat about how entrepreneurship can help further racial equity.
Anku is the visionary founder of Black Star Fund, an early-stage, Black-led venture capital fund that focuses on empowering African American entrepreneurs. Drawing from years of experience in tech locally and internationally, Anku emphasized the need for creative approaches to utilize capitalism for social change and transformation. He shared insights into his entrepreneurial journey, shedding light on the complexities of navigating the venture capital landscape, particularly as a second-generation immigrant.
Anku’s perspective is deeply rooted in the belief that building transformative businesses is the most effective way to pay homage to Dr. King’s ideas and example. He said such businesses can be used to create opportunities in alignment with the spirit and vision of Dr. King’s message of opportunity for all.
“We don’t believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt, so we’re coming to cash the check because it guarantees us the riches of freedom and the security of justice,” Anku said.
Assemblymember Mia Bonta spoke of the significance of the day, saying it was not only about honoring Dr. King.
“It’s also an opportunity for the city of Sacramento, our colleagues, and the apparatus of government here in the state of California to recognize the power of Black California,” Bonta said.
The event served as a platform not only for commemoration, but also for acknowledging the contributions and potential of California’s Black entrepreneurs. The emphasis on entrepreneurship as a catalyst for social impact echoes Dr. King’s vision, demonstrating that his dream requires active participation and leveraging opportunities for the betterment of society.
The annual breakfast stands as an example to the ongoing commitment of the California Legislative Black Caucus to creating a legacy of empowerment, opportunity, and positive change both locally and nationally.