The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Chattanooga Chapter announced today the launch of "Black Dollar Day." The organization is asking the city's African Americans to purchase $2 bills during the next two weeks from three major banks - AmSouth, First Tennessee and SunTrust.
On Friday, Feb. 13, African Americans are encouraged to spend those $2 bills when making purchases at grocery stores, gas stations, discount stores and other places.
The purpose of the campaign is to signify a unified effort of the value and impact of African American spending, officials said.
"Black Dollar Day is symbolic of the support African Americans provide to area businesses," said Tanya Gipson, President of the Chattanooga Chapter. "Our dollars make an impact in the lives of many Chattanooga business owners."
In 2002, TVA reports African Americans spent $600 million in Chattanooga.
African American organizations and elected officials have joined The Coalition in this community wide effort, it was stated.
Black Dollar Day Campaign Chair for The Coalition, Carol O'Neal said, "We hope everyone within the African American community will come together in great numbers and support this effort to send the message that OUR money counts."
Organizational partners include Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Chattanooga African American Chamber of Commerce, Chattanooga Area Urban League, Chattanooga Young Professionals, City Councilmen John Franklin, Jr., Yusuf A.Hakeem, Leamon Pierce, and John Taylor, County Commissioner William Cotton, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Judge John Millican, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, NAACP, NOBLE, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity.
The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Chattanooga Chapter is an organization that advocates enhanced quality of life for individuals and families of color by facilitating programs that address their needs and unites the public and private sector of Chattanooga to ensure progress of African-American women. While establishing a sisterly bond, these programs foster leadership, educational opportunities, economic partnerships and political strength, it was stated.