The New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce was disappointed to learn that Donald Rouse, Sr., co-owner of Louisiana based and Gulf Coast Regional Grocery Chain Rouses Market, participated in the treasonous rally that led to the attack on our nation’s Capital on Wednesday, January 6, 2021. This behavior is unconscionable and is unacceptable for someone who conducts business in the metropolitan New Orleans area.
Donald Rouse, Sr.’s attendance at the event in support of overthrowing the will of the people after a free and lawful election – at the very time that our leaders in Congress were carrying out their constitutional duty to certify the electoral votes – is abhorrent and should not be tolerated.
In the Spring of 2020, in the wake of the unlawful and violent death of George Floyd and others, the New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce presented a “Call to Action” which outlined how the City of New Orleans should move forward to increase diversity, inclusion, and equity. Wednesday’s events laid bare the inherent racism that has plagued this country for over 400 years.
In this vein, the New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce condemns the actions of Mr. Rouse. In response to his behavior, we implore that the Greater New Orleans Region joins us in support of Black-owned grocery stores and food businesses, including NORBCC members.
Our sincere hope is that we can move toward more kindness, understanding, and equity in the United States of America in this dark time in our nation’s history. The Chamber looks forward to a peaceful inauguration of President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice-President-Elect Kamala Harris on January 20, 2021.
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