Celebrating Community: The Aux Collective Unveils Grand Opening of Black-Owned Businesses

Black-owned collective The Aux celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, establishing a vibrant center for local minority businesses in Evanston. Located at 2223 Washington Street, its renovations were overseen by Chicago’s Ujamaa Construction. With over eight Black-owned enterprises, co-developer Jacqui White envisions The Aux fostering community wellness. Influenced by initiatives like Sherman Phoenix Marketplace, it aims to serve all demographics. Co-developer Lori Laser emphasizes local empowerment amid national challenges to diversity. The space promotes inclusivity and education, essential for addressing systemic barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs.