The phrase "building your own table" has become a popular saying among those who want to take control of their lives and futures. But it's not just a catchy slogan; it's a powerful reminder that we all have the power to shape our own destinies, even when seats aren’t offered.
This is especially true in music & culture, where Black ownership has been a driving force behind some of the most iconic moments in history. Take the Safe Bus Company, for example. Founded by Leroy Logan and his wife Essie Mae in 1968, this small bus company became an unlikely symbol of resilience and self-determination in the face of limited opportunities.
The Safe Bus Company's legacy is a testament to what can be achieved when we build our own tables. It shows that Black ownership isn’t just about profit or power - it's about creating full experiences that transcend music and fashion, inspiring others to do the same.
This brings us to our first point: Black ownership is crucial in shaping music & culture.
Black artists have always been at the forefront of innovation in music & culture. From jazz to hip-hop, their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the sound and style we know today. But despite this, Black ownership has often been overlooked or undervalued. This is particularly true in the music industry, where many Black artists are signed to labels that don’t always prioritize their best interests.
The Safe Bus Company's success shows that when Black people own and control their own businesses, they can create opportunities for themselves and others. It's a reminder that we need more Black-owned record labels, music festivals, and clothing brands - not just because it's the right thing to do, but because it's essential for the continued growth of music & culture.
Our second point: Black ownership is about creating full experiences that transcend music and fashion.
Music & culture are more than just sounds and styles - they're full experiences that can inspire, challenge, and transform us. And when Black people own and control these experiences, they have the power to shape them in ways that resonate with their own unique perspectives and histories.
The Safe Bus Company's legacy is a prime example of this. By owning their own buses, Leroy Logan and Essie Mae were able to create an experience that was both practical and powerful - one that helped shape the Civil Rights Movement in ways that few could have predicted. Their story shows us that when we build our own tables, we can create experiences that are not only unique but also transformative.
Our third point: Black ownership inspires others to take control of their narratives and futures.
The Safe Bus Company's legacy is more than just a story about one small bus company - it's a story about the power of Black ownership in shaping music & culture, period. It's a story that inspires others to take control of their narratives and futures, no matter what obstacles they may face.
We need more stories like this - stories that celebrate Black ownership and inspire others to build their own tables when seats aren’t offered. Because when we do, we create a world where everyone
