The 15 Percent Pledge Gala Brought Strong Shoulders and Famous Faces

Founded by Aurora James of Brother Vellies in the wake of George Floyd's murder during the summer of 2020, The 15 Percent Pledge is, per Wiki, "a US-based non-profit organization that encourages retailers to pledge at least 15 percent of their shelf-space to Black-owned businesses. The foundation conducts audits, shares its database of Black-owned businesses, and offers business development strategies to participating companies." They also have an excellent website that, among other things, makes it easy to find and shop Black-owned brands, which is a great resource. On Saturday, they held a gala awarding grants to Black-owned companies, and the dress code was "black tie, Black designer." Let's take in these looks!

[Photos: Gregory Pace/Shutterstock]