Darryl Jones: Ensuring Tallahassee’s legacy of Black economic empowerment

As deputy director of the Office of Economic Vitality for Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprises, I am honored to continue the legacy of trailblazers like Booker T. Washington and Whitney Young. These leaders championed economic empowerment, recognizing entrepreneurship as the foundation of Black progress. Their vision laid the groundwork for Black business success despite systemic barriers. Today, I carry forward their mission by fostering inclusive economic growth and empowering future generations of minority entrepreneurs. Washington’s philosophy remains relevant: “At the bottom of education, at the bottom of politics, even at the bottom of religion itself, there must be… an economic foundation.” His belief in economic independence continues to inspire Black entrepreneurs, driving job creation and upward mobility. Steve Beasley, founder of the Capital Outlook newspaper, recalls the impact of the Frenchtown Merchants Association in the 1950s. Black business owners overcame financial barriers by leveraging relationships with local banks and the FAMU Credit Union—Florida’s oldest credit union. Instead of competing, they built a self-help network, recognizing their collective power. Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle. Beyond business, they gave back. Forty years ago, the association launched the Soul Santa initiative, providing Christmas gifts for working-class families....