Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey proclaimed July 24-31 as Black Business Week during a kickoff event Wednesday at George Floyd Square, marking the fifth annual celebration of Black-owned businesses in the city.

The event, held at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, featured remarks from Frey, City Council President Elliot Payne and Council Member Andrea Jenkins. The proclamation highlighted the city's commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs and addressing economic disparities through targeted investments in cultural corridors and historically underserved areas.

"Any part of a great Minneapolis comeback will not be that without black business owners," Frey said during the ceremony. The week includes 10 events throughout the city designed to connect residents with Black-owned businesses and provide entrepreneurs access to city services and resources.

The celebration took an unexpected turn when event organizer Lelle Cunningham read a letter signed by multiple business owners at the 38th and Chicago intersection expressing concerns about a proposed pedestrian-only plaza. The letter argued that closing the intersection to vehicle traffic would harm businesses by reducing access and foot traffic, potentially causing "irreparable damage" to the Chicago Avenue corridor.

The business owners, including representatives from Plot Gallery, Bichota Coffee, Square Event Center and other establishments, called for a "flexible community-informed design" that preserves access while incorporating spaces for reflection and remembrance. Frey acknowledged the concerns, stating that supporting Black businesses requires "hearing them out" and "doing right by the needs of community."