BrewExpo America and the Craft Brewers Conference both took place in Nashville in May of last year, where the National Black Brewers Association was unveiled. This pioneering nonprofit is dedicated to the following important objectives: Promoting the black brewing community; expanding the participation of African Americans in the brewing sector at all levels of production, particularly among owners and brewmasters; using influence by creating and promoting efficient policies; and fostering the historical context and legacy of African Americans’ contributions to brewing in the United States, among other goals.
Black Brewer’s Day is a day set aside by the National Black Brewers Association to honour and celebrate the rich legacy and achievements of Black beer brewers throughout American history. It is one of the organization’s first major projects. What’s particularly amazing about this is that 16 American communities have already declared this day an official holiday that will be commemorated on October 10 every year. A lot of places and states really participated in the festivities this year, including: California, Los Angeles County, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Lucas County (Ohio), North Las Vegas County (Nevada), Atlanta, Cleveland, Durham, Las Vegas, Little Rock, New Orleans, Montgomery, Sacramento, St. Louis, and Toledo. Bravo, Cleveland… the hometown of CBB.
From the press release:
“Although we just launched our association and efforts towards a more equitable and inclusive brewing industry, our team has been hard at work to make sure Black brewers across the United States start to receive the recognition they deserve,” said Kevin Asato, President of the Black Brewers Association. “Together with local and state representatives we are proud to announce this momentous occasion, the first of many to come.”
With regard to the fourth of the aforementioned mission statements, Black Brewer’s Day is noteworthy because it commemorates the journey of Theodore A. (Ted) Mack, Sr. and his colleagues, who on October 10, 1970, celebrated the purchase of People’s Brewing Co. in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Over 2,000 visitors, including shareholders, municipal and state politicians, and distinguished dignitaries, were present for this historic event. People’s Brewing Co. earned the distinction of becoming the first black-owned brewery ever on that tragic day, and Mack made history by becoming the first black brewery president in the United States.
The Black Brewers Association urges everyone to commemorate and acknowledge the historical significance of Black Brewer’s Day, the ongoing legacy of black brewers, and their vital contributions to the brewing industry. The National Black Brewers Association said well in advance of the deadline that it is working with the City of Sacramento and the California State Legislature to approve a resolution that would add this important day to the state’s calendar. The National Black Brewers Association’s membership details are available online.
For more information on the National Black Brewers Association and membership,visit https://www.nationalblackbrewersassociation.org/membership
SOURCE: Craft Brewing Business
PHOTO CREDIT: On File