Black EV Charging Startups Making a Difference to Underrepresented Communities
By: Jennifer Magdalene
There were 1,607 electric vehicle (EV) charging companies in July 2022 and this number is predicted to grow quickly as more drivers make the switch to green driving. Within this industry, black startup founders are taking big strides, with Forbes recently applauding the efforts of founders with an authentic passion for sustainability. For instance, Sheryl E. Ponds, the CEO of Dai Technologies Corp., launched her startup to fulfil the demand for new EV charging stations in her area. However, it was hard for her to ignore the fact that most of her customers were white, affluent, and from specific suburbs. Her wish was to benefit urban and black communities, so she began introducing her services to apartment property managers in zones with a more diverse population. Selling her services to property managers involves extra work, she states, but it is worth it. In the end, it is black families who benefit from EV chargers. Without putting in the necessary effort, she explains, black people “would be barred from adopting electric vehicles.”
Black Consumers Can Benefit More from EV Adoption
Black neighborhoods can benefit more from driving EVs. Recent research has shown that people of color breathe more hazardous air. The pollutants they are exposed to include diesel matter and construction and industrial pollution. K Wasserman, Executive Director of the Little Village Environmental Justice Organization, has stated that black communities are often “sacrifice zones” whose needs are ignored for economic good, regardless of the health outcomes. The tragedy of poisoned water in Flint, Michigan, highlights the fact that people of color can additionally be affected by water discrimination. The fact is that water management and conservation are beneficial. Poor water systems not only result in toxicity, but also in significant loss to communities. Savings can be made by adopting water retention and purification schemes. However, all too often, black neighborhoods miss out on these initiatives. EV adoption is clearly just one small piece in the sustainability puzzle, but it can lower toxicity and exposure to fuel emissions in a significant way and therefore improve the health and wellbeing of specific populations.
Hiring Members of Underrepresented Communities
John Aviv is another black founder of an EV charging station company called SparkChange. He founded his business in 2017 because he thought that supply was simply not meeting demand. Federal funds are available for EV charging stations, but the process of setting a station up can take up to two years. Through his business, any EV owner in a given city can have a station set up in days. Aviv is also keen to make a difference by offering underrepresented communities jobs in his businesses. By doing so, he is offering them the chance to work in a green business that is giving back to their communities as well as making a profit.
Black American founders of EV charging station startups are making a big difference to underrepresented communities. They are making big efforts to ensure their services reach these communities. They are also making efforts to embrace diversity and inclusivity in their hiring practices, so that their target market can play a key role in the EV industry.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
