By Tricia Hall
The Truth Reporter
The African American Legacy Project organized a day-long opportunity to highlight the history and economic impact of Dorr Street. One activity focused on moving the business sector forward through a facilitated discussion that included a panel.
Local entrepreneur Charlie Mack facilitated the discussion that included local entrepreneur Thomas Nash and a round robin conversation.
“My father came to Toledo in 1969,” said Mack. “He started a few businesses and taught me by passing those businesses to us. It’s about creating businesses in our community. Small businesses are the backbone of the economy. I wanted to create a career for myself and that prospective has shifted. I have children who are my wealth and opportunity. I do real estate and radio, I bring my children into the radio station. We have to pass something along, it doesn’t have to be a business, it can be knowledge.”
Thomas Nash answered questions about generational wealth and turning conversation into action.
“We need action behind discussions,” said Nash. “Communication and coming together are important. Events happen outside of Toledo, that won’t come here. Talking is fine, but actions speak louder than words. You don’t always have to be the point person to make things happen. My daughter is taking the lead on college outreach and has her own team. I am passing on my knowledge and not just wealth.”
Attendees and panelists in attendance held a round robin discussion that touched on sharing of knowledge and resources, starting and supporting businesses and the importance of Black-owned businesses.
“We tend to keep stuff to ourselves. We have to share our knowledge,” explained Rich Hogan.
“We must come to the table and come together to determine community priorities. Anyone who wants to come to the table is welcome,” added Robert Smith.
“You can lead a horse to water but can’t make them drink. You must make them thirsty. We need to bring young folks and older folks together, we need to understand the motivations of each age group,” shared Jerome Graham.
“Let’s talk about cross generational experience, it takes a village,” said Audrey Johnson. “We need to create a space to be in the create cross generational storytelling. We can create something that is simple, give conversation a chance.”
For additional information about African American Legacy Project of Northwest Ohio, visit https://www.africanamericanlegacy.org/
