West Elm Takes 15 Percent Pledge to Support Black Designers and Businesses

From Good Housekeeping

As protests following the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain and more continue across the country, many industries have taken time to reevaluate their practices to become more inclusive and equitable. In late May, fashion designer Aurora James created the 15 Percent Pledge and foundation to challenge the retail industry to bring more opportunity to Black-owned businesses.

James's 15 Percent Pledge calls on major retailers to commit a 15% minimum of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses. She came up with 15% as Black people make up that much of the U.S. population. So far retailers like Sephora and Rent the Runway have taken the pledge. Yesterday, furniture retailer West Elm announced that it will also follow suit.

West Elm outlined the news in a press release, where it promises a multi-year donation to the foundation, as well three benchmarks: First, the brand vows to increase its collaborations with Black designers, artists, and Black-owned brands to a minimum of 15%. Next, the company wants to up the number of Black makers and small businesses featured on West Elm LOCAL to at least 15%. Finally, West Elm wants its corporate workforce to be made up of at least 15% Black employees, as well as work to strengthen its retail-to-corporate pipeline.

“We could not be happier that West Elm has stepped up and pledged its commitment to supporting a community of Black-owned businesses, artists, designers, and makers," James says in a statement. "We commend West Elm for the brand's leadership in the design space and look forward to working with them on their accountability measures to hit the 15% benchmarks," she continues.

Kudos to West Elm for stepping up! You can learn more about the 15 Percent Pledge here. But remember: You can also do your own part as a shopper. Here are our favorite Black-owned home brands and Black-owned Etsy shops as starting points.

You Might Also Like

• A Cleaning Expert Explains the Best Way to Clean Cloth Face Masks After You Wear Them — Good Housekeeping

• 35 Delicious Pantry Recipes That Use What's Already in Your Cabinets and Freezer — Good Housekeeping

• The Amish keep to themselves. And they’re hiding a horrifying secret. — Cosmopolitan