Newsletter Vol. 5 No. 1 – January 2025

Posted on January 6, 2025March 6, 2025

NAVIGATION

The Silent Struggle of Black Business Owners in “Progressive” Vermont

by Airon Shaw

Vermont is often painted as a bastion of progressive ideals, a sanctuary where equality and justice thrive amidst the state’s idyllic green hills. But for Black business owners here, this picture-perfect narrative often feels like a cruel mirage. Beneath the surface of the state’s celebrated liberalism lies a complicated and often painful reality—a reality where the very individuals who champion “wokeness” can perpetuate the same biases they claim to fight against.

Being a Black business owner in Vermont is a unique challenge, layered with obstacles that are both overt and insidious. For many of us, the most difficult hurdles don’t come from blatant racism but from the unchecked biases and microaggressions of liberal white individuals—those who view themselves as allies yet fail to examine their own behavior in professional settings.

These biases manifest in myriad ways. Some workers exhibit an unwillingness to accept direction or feedback, interpreting it as an affront rather than a standard aspect of any workplace relationship. Others operate with a sense of entitlement, believing their opinions or approaches should carry more weight than their role warrants. This behavior, cloaked in self-righteousness, often forces Black employers to navigate a minefield of resistance just to maintain professional standards.

When we hold these employees accountable or challenge their inappropriate behavior, the backlash can be swift and devastating. White tears—emotional displays that shift focus from the issue at hand to the feelings of the white individual—become a weapon. Suddenly, the narrative pivots: the Black employer becomes “harsh,” “intimidating,” or “unfair,” while the white worker assumes the role of the victim. In a state where white voices dominate nearly every sphere, these accusations can carry significant consequences, from damage to our reputations to financial losses for our businesses.

The irony is staggering. Vermont prides itself on being a haven for progressivism, but the lack of racial diversity and the unchecked privilege of many white residents create a breeding ground for performative allyship. In many cases, liberal white Vermonters’ commitment to equity begins and ends with symbolic gestures—yard signs, social media posts, and donations to national organizations. When it comes to interrogating their own biases or supporting Black individuals in positions of leadership, the enthusiasm often wanes.

These challenges aren’t unique to my experiences. In conversations with fellow Black business owners across Vermont, I’ve heard the same stories repeated: the struggle to be taken seriously as professionals, the frustration of having to constantly prove our competence, and the exhaustion of dealing with the emotional labor of educating others about issues they should already understand.

The reality is simple yet disheartening: if Vermont’s progressive identity were as strong as its residents like to believe, Black business owners wouldn’t have to fight this hard just to exist. These struggles aren’t ours to fix; we didn’t create them. And frankly, we’re tired of being asked to do the emotional labor of explaining what should already be clear.

Black business owners in Vermont are resilient, but resilience shouldn’t be a necessity for survival. We deserve the same dignity, respect, and professional courtesy afforded to others. For those who find this truth uncomfortable, perhaps it’s time to ask why. Vermont’s image as a progressive haven doesn’t absolve it of its flaws—it magnifies them. Because when those who claim to be allies are the ones causing harm, the betrayal stings all the more.

It’s not our responsibility to teach or to fix. The burden of change lies elsewhere. Vermont’s liberal residents must decide if their progressivism is more than a convenient label. Until then, Black business owners will continue to navigate this tension, building success in the face of adversity while knowing that the state we call home has a long way to go.

About the Author

Airon Shaw supports VT PoC on a part-time basis as Technical Assistance and Research Coordinator. Airon holds a Master’s Degree in Restorative Justice from Vermont Law and Graduate School and is currently pursuing an MBA with concentration in marketing at Rivier University. In addition to her work with VT PoC, Airon serves as the Executive Director for the Cohase Chamber of Commerce in the Upper Valley.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

news FROM THE NETWORK

EVENTS

January 6, 13, 20, 27 – Fletcher Free Library Presents: English Classes for Mothers (12:30 PM – 2:00 PM)
USCRI VT will host mixed English classes for women in one room while having childcare provided in another room.

January 7, 14, 21, 28 (Every Tuesday) – Richard Kemp Center: Got Chess? (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
The Youth Chess Club is a dynamic and inclusive program designed to empower young individuals from Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities through the timeless game of chess. Our program offers a safe and welcoming space where youth can explore the world of chess, cultivate essential life skills, and experience a range of valuable benefits.

January 7 – CVOEO: Keys to Credit (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
If you are interested in learning how credit affects your day to day life, what influences your credit score, and how to build and repair your credit, this class is for you! This class is offered multiple times a month over Zoom. Choose a date and time that works for you, then click register! For questions, please email growingmoney@cvoeo.org.

January 8 – Free Non-profit Consult with Kelley Marketing Group (8:00 AM – 9:30 AM)
We meet on the second Wednesday of each month with the selected nonprofit. There is also an option to join virtually. Visit our contact page for more guidance on the Champlain College meeting location and directions. Thanks to the generosity of Champlain College, there’s no charge. To be considered, please complete Kelley Marketing Group’s Application Form (Word document), or fill out this online application. If you have any questions, please contact kelleymarketinggroupvt@gmail.com.

January 8 – Vermont Womenpreneurs: Biz Buzz Zoom (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Our monthly Vermont Womenpreneurs meet-up, on Wednesday of each month at 10am, serves as an opportunity for women business owners across the state to connect, learn of new opportunities and updates from one another. Register to get Zoom link.

January 8 – Catching Up with the Office of Racial Equity (5:30 PM – 6:30 PM)
The State of Vermont Office of Racial Equity has had the privilege and the distinct responsibility of participating in a wide array of activities across the state and in collaboration with peers from jurisdictions outside Vermont. Some of our work we do by law, some by choice. Our staff is dedicated, sharp, and always working towards something bigger than ourselves. Join us on for a webinar that will provide an overview of our Office, its work, and its staff. Hear about what we do, what we don’t do, what projects we’re working on, and what you can expect to see from us in the near future.

January 9, 16 – CVOEO: Spend SMART (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Spend SMART (2 Sessions): Build skills to track spending. Learn how to develop a budget that works for you, and develop SMART savings goals.

January 10, 17, 24, 31 – Dorothy Ailing Memorial Library Presents: Adult Meditation Online (12:00 PM – 12:30 PM)
Take a break from your day to reconnect to your peaceful body and breath. Join us for a short guided meditation session via Zoom. If you would like to join us, please email daml@damlvt.org and we will send you an invitation to the Zoom meeting.

January 10, 24 – Richard Kemp Center: Youth Movie Night (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Youth Movie Night is a community-centered initiative aimed at promoting awareness, understanding, and dialogue on racial justice issues through the medium of film. This program creates a safe and inclusive space where youth from 8 to 18 can come together to watch thought-provoking movies with cultural themes, engage in meaningful discussions, and share food in a welcoming and collaborative environment.

January 11, 18, 25 – Richard Kemp Center: Legal Clinic (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
We’re promoting racial equity by offering accessible legal support to those who often face systemic barriers within the legal system. Here we empower individuals, protect their civil rights, and offer representation in legal matters where racial discrimination or injustice may be prevalent.

January 11 (11–1 PM), 15 (6–8 PM) – Richard Kemp Center: Front Door – Growing Homes
We’re opening the front door for folks to come and join us in the Growing Homes Initiative. Front Door is a great way to start the journey with us. Here we’ll provide an overview of the initiative and get you introduced to our coaches who will get you started on the journey to learning, growing, healing and economic empowerment! The Growing Homes Initiative aims to support community members with lived experiences of racial trauma. It offers cultural access, community involvement, and guidance on the path to overall wellness, including economic wellness. Phase One (six months) of Growing Homes is the first step in the roll-out of a program targeted at healing and reducing the racial wealth gap, up to and including home and land ownership!

January 11 – Joy Riders VT: BIPOC Skate Night (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
This is a free event for the BIPOC community. DM to request skates & RSVP. 💖

January 12 – Fletcher Free Library Presents: Dad Guild (3:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
Fathers (and parents of all genders) and their kids ages 5 and under drop in for playtime and connection. Ages 0-5. dadguild.weebly.com

January 13 – Nonprofit Community Safety Convening (1:30 PM – 3:00 PM)
How are community safety concerns impacting your nonprofit? How can nonprofits work collaboratively to enhance safety in our communities? What are possible public policy solutions that support accountability, prevention, and equity? Are we able to articulate a unified voice on community safety issues with policymakers? Join Common Good Vermont and your peers for an exploratory discussion on community safety. The conversation will be framed with insights from Ruben Garza, executive director of United Way of Windham County, and Shabnam Nolan, executive director of King Street Center. We will then dive into small and full group discussions facilitated by Tom Cheney, executive director of Advance Vermont.

January 13 – Female Founders Speakers Series: Economic Power (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
Season 9 of the Female Founders Speaker Series continues on Monday, January 13th from 5:30-7pm at Hotel Vermont. This panel on economic power will teach women how to get it, grow it, and give it. The topic will be a conversation around how women create new income and wealth through entrepreneurship, and how they use this economic power to build up other women.

January 13 – Culinary Mavericks: A Multi-Course Jamaican Fall Harvest Dinner (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
Join us for an unforgettable evening of bold flavors and culinary fusion at An Authentic Jamaican Fall Harvest Dinner, part of the Culinary Maverick dinner series hosted by Local Maverick in partnership with Cold Hollow Cider Mill. This special event will feature a multi-course meal created by Chef Shaneall Ferron of Thingz From Yaad, blending authentic Jamaican cuisine with the seasonal bounty of Vermont.

January 14 – CVOEO: Tenant Skills (5:00 PM – 6:30 PM)
Tenant Skills includes the fundamentals of tenant rights and responsibilities, leases, security deposits, repairs, health code violations, terminations, evictions, fair housing and disability law. The workshop is currently offered via Zoom several times a month. If you have questions, need help registering, or would like to schedule an interpreted class, please email classcoord@cvoeo.org or call 802-660-3455 ext. 205.

January 15 – CVOEO: Sustaining the Rent (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
Sustaining the Rent focuses on strategies to financially prepare for renting, including determining what “affordable” rent would be and comparing costs of apartments, and understanding how credit affects the ability to pay rent, as well as developing the knowledge and skills needed to track spending, build a budget, and find resources to help meet housing and basic needs. This workshop is currently offered via Zoom once a month. Sustaining the Rent is also also offered as a fully online, self-paced course, accessible whenever suits your schedule! Click here to sign up for Sustaining the Rent On-Demand If you have questions, please email classcoord@cvoeo.org or call 802-660-3455 ext. 205.

January 15 – CVOEO: Creating a Financial Future (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Creating a Financial Future (1 session): Learn about investing for long term goals. Short term v. long term savings, planning ahead for emergencies, vacations, and retirement.

January 16 – Vermont Womenpreneurs: Biz Buzz Burlington (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Our monthly Burlington Vermont Womenpreneurs meet-up at 10am is an opportunity for women business owners in Chittenden County to connect, learn of new opportunities and updates from one another. Registration ($8) covers your beverage (coffee, tea, juice, etc.) and light breakfast fare from Deep City’s kitchen. VTW PRO Members are free (promo code will be sent to you via member email.)

January 17 – Richard Kemp Center: Game Night (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
The Game Night is a unique and inclusive community event designed to foster unity, understanding, and celebration of diverse cultures while promoting racial equity and social justice. This is a welcoming space for people from all racial backgrounds to come together, have fun, and engage in meaningful conversations. You can expect Inclusive Games, Cultural Exchange, Racial Justice Discussions, Networking and Building, Community, Food and Refreshments and a Family-Friendly Environment.

January 18 – Vermont Jazz Center Presents: Brandee Younger Trio (7:30 PM)
Brandee Younger is revolutionizing the harp, an instrument most of us don’t often think of as part of jazz’s front line. Inspired by the work of harp-pioneers Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane, Younger has developed a new vocabulary that is simultaneously fresh and connected to the instrument’s ancient sound (there are indications that the harp was used as far back as 3000 BC). Younger forges a deep connection with listeners of all genres, her unique approach is simultaneously free and reverential, informed by classical repertoire and the jazz tradition.

January 21 – CVOEO: Finding Housing (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
Finding Housing focuses on strategies for overcoming barriers to finding housing (such as a past eviction, no landlord references or a criminal record), understanding the landlord’s perspective and how to build a positive tenant-landlord relationship, and skills for conducting an organized housing search, including where to look. The workshop is currently offered via Zoom once a month. If you have questions, need help registering, or would like to schedule an interpreted class, please email classcoord@cvoeo.org or call 802-660-3455 ext. 205.

January 25 – Friends of the Library Free Concert Series (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
We are thrilled to bring Vermont Youth Orchestra Ensembles to South Burlington! Founded as a single ensemble in 1964, the Vermont Youth Orchestra Association has grown to offer a comprehensive music education for children ages zero to eighteen. Based in Colchester at the Elley-Long Music Center, the VYOA boasts an early childhood program, a robust lesson program, various training ensembles, partnerships with local schools, and three auditioned orchestras including their flagship ensemble: the Vermont Youth Orchestra. The VYOA proudly performs dozens of concerts each year in the Elley-Long Music Center, at the Flynn in downtown Burlington, and throughout Vermont.

January 25 – Flynn Center: *SNAP* STORIES (6:00 PM)
Our 5 storytellers for the 2nd annual Snap Festival have been confirmed. As you may remember from last year, Snap celebrates the power of first-person narratives across disciplines because we believe everyone has stories to tell and that sharing these stories teaches empathy by allowing us to recognize commonalities and learn about each other’s unique experiences. We had over 50 applicants from New England and New York submit their first person story proposals this year and are so excited to share the 5 artists chosen to perform in Flynn Space this January.

February 1, 2 – Winter Renaissance Faire (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
​​Come chase away the winter blues at the 8th Annual Winter Renaissance Faire, indoors at the Champlain Valley Exposition. The Faire is a family-friendly event for all ages, featuring performance troupes including singers, musicians, acrobats and dancers; as well as medieval fight demonstrations. With artisans and craft vendors—both local and from across New England—as well as mead, wine and, cider makers— patrons can find fascinating items and indulge their appetites with tasty treats from cultures around the world.

February 1 – The Human Family Potluck: Annual Black OurStory Month Community Celebration (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
ALL AGES & By Donation – noone turned away for lack of funds. BRING your grandmother’s favorite food, or just come join and Be Fed! POETS/MUSICIANS: Rajnii Eddins, Kiah Morris, DonnCherie, Toussant St Negritude, Amina Adesina Frances Rhoads. DRINKS by Kiki – Hot Cocoa & Unique Herbal Mocktails, non-alcoholic.

February 15, 16 – Save the Date: NOFA-VT Winter Conference
Each year, the NOFA-VT Winter Conference provides a valuable opportunity for farmers, homesteaders, gardeners, earth tenders, land managers, educators, students, policy-makers, and other food system activists to participate in our vibrant community event by sharing ideas, resources, and skills.

FUNDING & GRANTS

Vermont Arts Council Artist Development Grant
Artist Development Grants support Vermont artists at all stages of their careers. Grants can fund activities that enhance mastery of an artist’s craft or skills or that increase the viability of an artist’s business. Funding may also support aspects of the creation of new work when the activity allows the grantee to accept a rare and important opportunity. Applications due on January 28, 2025.

VT Main Street Flood Recovery Fund
The Vermont Main Street Flood Recovery Fund was established last year to provide grants to Vermont’s small business owners impacted by the July 10, 2023 flooding. July 2024 brought more extreme weather and catastrophic flooding to Vermont, devastating numerous small businesses, particularly in the Northeast Kingdom. In response, The Fund is once again raising money and taking applications. Grants up to $2,500 are intended to cover operating expenses or costs such as equipment replacement, supplies, and help with clean-up. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Community Action Team
The Vermont Community Action Teams (CATs) are groups of employees at each of Ben & Jerry’s three Vermont manufacturing and office facilities. They offer general or project support within the broad guidelines and funding provided by the Ben & Jerry’s Foundation. Applications are reviewed monthly.

USDA Small Business Cost Share Program
Funds are available for businesses through the USDA Small Business Cost Share Program. Businesses with fewer than 50 employees and gross profit under $1,000,000 are eligible. Grants can cover as much as 70% of the project cost with the business cost-share component at 30%. For more information, please contact Annie McLean at amclean@nvda.net.

Awesome Grant
Have a crazy brilliant idea that needs funding? We award $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler! Your idea is yours alone. We don’t want a stake in it. We just want to help you make it happen! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Skip Monthly Grants
Have a crazy brilliant idea that needs funding? We award $1,000 grants every month. It couldn’t be simpler! Your idea is yours alone. Looking for grants to fuel your business or passion? Skip’s grants are now bigger and better than ever. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Social Equity: Vermont Cannabis Control Board
Individuals that have been determined to meet social equity status by the Vermont Cannabis Control Board may be eligible to receive a beneficiary payment from this program. Eligible applicants must have completed the intake process with Roads Consulting, the state’s provider of cannabis business technical assistance. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Flood Recovery Rebates for Residents
Qualifying low- and moderate-income Vermont homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $29,500 per household to replace flood-damaged appliances and equipment. Damage must have occurred between July 10 – July 31, 2023 (or July 10 – August 10 for residents of Addison County). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Flood Recovery Rebates for Businesses
Businesses whose heating, cooling, refrigeration, or commercial kitchen equipment was damaged by recent floods can receive a flood recovery rebate of 100% of costs up to $4,000 per product for up to four products, in addition to standard offers. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Bizee’s Entrepreneur Grant
Are you a student? This grant is for you! You’ve got big ideas, and we want to turn them into a reality. One young scholar with entrepreneurial spirit will receive $2,500 to continue their education. Application date coming soon.

Bizee’s Fresh Start Business Grant
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start or grow your business? This grant is for you! Whether you’re starting over or starting from scratch, Bizee wants to be there to help your business succeed. One adult entrepreneur will receive $2,500 to put toward business startup costs and will also receive free formation services from Bizee. Application date coming soon.

NEWS

Soul Santa brings representation — and holiday cheer — to towns across Vermont
Families can head to Burlington, Rutland and White River Junction for reindeer games, hot chocolate, sweet treats, music and pictures with Black Santa.

New Vermont laws for Jan. 1: Minimum wage, town ethics, electric vehicle fee and more
The new laws taking effect in 2025 include an annual minimum wage increase and several changes that are intended to increase the accessibility of health care.

Thousands more people are moving into Vermont than moving away
The state treasurer’s office analyzed recent census data and found that on a per capita basis, Vermont had the highest net in-migration of any New England state, and the third highest rate in the U.S. last year.

New program aims to help Vermont employers hire and retain diverse employees
“I think that diversity is a driver of excellence and that it’s imperative for us to navigate the aspects of Vermont being a very white state” so everybody can benefit, said Courtney Fleisher, a clinical psychologist at UVMMC.

Vermont introduces new retirement program: What you need to know
The program is geared toward small employers, but most Vermont workers are qualified to open an account.