In an exclusive rolling out interview, we connect with Lauran A. Smith -- visionary behind Chicago Black Restaurant Week (CBRW) -- as she celebrates the 10th anniversary of this citywide event. Born in Memphis, to Rev. Dr. and the late Mrs. Ozzie E. Smith Jr., Smith is a seasoned digital professional with roles spanning Digital Director, Content & Digital Campaign Manager, and Social Media Specialist. She launched Elle's Digital Agency to support busy professionals, becoming a recognized figure on platforms such as Windy City Live and NPR. Here, Smith discusses CBRW's origins, the new lineup of participating restaurants, and what attendees can expect as they join in the celebration.
What inspired you to create Chicago Black Restaurant Week (CBRW)?
My inspiration came from the feeling of wanting to do "more" for my community, and I ended up figuring out how to "marry" two of my favorite things: FOOD and The Black Community -- my community!
What were some of the initial challenges you faced when launching CBRW, and how did you overcome them?
Some of the more interesting challenges were from people of different ethnic backgrounds telling me I was racist and a catalyst for Chicago's divisiveness. Others were threats from anonymous keyboard thugs, stating they would harm me or end my life. I laughed at both because I don't commit time to foolishness. I'm Pro-Black, not anti-"everybody else," so I have no obligation to create celebrations for any other community outside my own!
What are the primary goals of CBRW?
The goal of CBRW has always been to provide more visibility and shed more light on the positives the Black community offers. Global Media will have anyone believing one particular narrative -- CBRW is just one entity that dispels those myths.
What can attendees expect when they participate in CBRW?
Attendees can expect fabulous specials, wonderful food, and a great time while visiting.
How do you select the participating restaurants for CBRW, and what criteria do you use to ensure a diverse and representative lineup?
CBRW is open to any Black-owned food, beverage, or dessert businesses in Chicago and the Chicagoland areas, including the suburbs. The best thing about CBRW is that you will find every style of cuisine in the lineup. From vegan to fine dining, juice bars, soul food, tacos -- the variety of what Black people manage to do with food is endless, and that is always represented each year.
What are your future plans for CBRW? Do you have any upcoming expansions or new initiatives in mind?
I always told myself that after 10 years, I want to create more initiatives that align with what CBRW represents, get youth involved in this nationally recognized event, and much more. The plans are in place, and I'll share once everything is solidified.
How do you plan to sustain and grow the momentum of CBRW in the coming years?
I truly believe the momentum will continue to be high, and the Black community should always be in a space of expectation when it comes to CBRW. The audience grows each year. Every year, someone tells me how they look forward to this and how much they love finding new Black-owned businesses in other areas of Chicagoland!