Traditional African American market was temporarily put on pause due to COVID-19, but is now back and better than ever at Natur-Tyme on Erie Boulevard
(Syracuse) – Patrona Jones-Rowser is passionate about promoting African American small businesses, even more so during the month of February and Black History Month. Multiple minority and women owned “brick and mortar” shops are back selling wares at the Sankofa Urban Market, located at Natur-Tyme at 3160 Erie Boulevard East, Syracuse, NY, 13214.
COVID-19 temporarily delayed the opening of Sankofa Urban Market until this month. It is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM every Saturday between now and the end of May.
Products and services available at the market include, but not limited to African American art, natural products, hair, clothing, jewelry, soaps, body butters, head wraps, clothing, health and beauty, and shoes.
Jones-Rowser uses every tool in her “marketing toolbox” to spread the good word about the Sankofa Market, including regular videos and posting of flyers on Facebook.
“We should make a strong effort to support African American small businesses year round. The Sankofa Urban Market is a great opportunity for shoppers to be introduced to minority and women owned businesses. These ‘brick and mortar’ shops also have a chance to put their great products and services on display,” said Jones-Rowser.
African American and women owned businesses from across Central New York have set up shop at the Sankofa Urban Market, including:
- Touched by Honey clothing and catering
- Melonated Om: self care, candles, incense, crystals, bath products
- Creative Lookz of Art: gift baskets and jewelry
- Sculpt Me Essentials: beauty, cosmetic and personal care products
- VC3 Fashion Boutique: handmade wire jewelry
- Secrets of an Imperfect Goddess
- AfricaSyr
Two other small businesses share the same corner space with the Sankofa Urban Market at
Natur-Tyme:
- BeSure Juicery: smoothies and natural juices
- Shop Ecodessa: ethically made, sustainable fashion.
“COVID-19 hurt a lot of small businesses over the past two years, especially in the African American community. We are in this together. Black History Month is a fitting time to promote minority businesses and help many during these still trying times. Plus, there’s a wide range of goods, products and services for people to choose from,” concluded Jones-Rowser.
