Roux Events LLC

WHEREAS, Black-owned businesses are essential to a thriving and equitable economy, yet remain underrepresented – making up just 1.5 percent of small businesses in Arizona despite Black Arizonans comprising 4.7 percent of the state’s population, and

WHEREAS, the National Bureau of Economic Research found that 41 percent of Black-owned businesses in the United States were lost in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the need for bold and community-driven economic support; and

WHEREAS, in June 2020, in the spirit of resilience and innovation, Blax Friday was founded to elevate and connect Black-owned businesses across Arizona – becoming the state’s largest Black business directory and the only app of its kind; and

WHEREAS, over the past five years, Blax Friday has identified and promoted more than 2,000 Black-owned businesses, launched transformational programs like Soul Food Wednesdays, the Pitch Black grant competition, and Arizona’s first community-managed BIPOC loan fund; and it has formed key partnerships, including with the State of Black Arizona, Why I Love Where I Live, Community Investment Corporation, Growth Partners Arizona, Groundswell Capital, Startup Tucson, Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, African American Legacy Fund, and Local First Arizona; and

WHEREAS, Blax Friday continues to serve as a statewide model for economic equity, cultural celebrations, and grassroots entrepreneurship,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Pima County Board of Supervisors hereby proclaims Friday, June 6, 2025, to be:

“THE 5TH ANNIVERSARY OF BLAX FRIDAY”

and honors Ashley La Russa and the Blax Friday community for five years of visionary service, innovation, and commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous Arizona.

Thank you and the Pima County Board of Supervisors.

Thank you , , , and for supporting Blax Friday in person this morning.

Filled with gratitude and joy!

IT’S TIME! FOR A BREAK!
Starting December 16th

You know me, it’s time for self care and self reflection. This January 1st, I’ll be 41! Blessed!

Thank you everyone for coming out to my events and showing love.

Thank you to my community partners that help my businesses grow.

Thank you to my friends that lift me up, make sure I’m eating and cheering me on to next opportunity.

My Fam is planning my birthday celebrations on January 4th at some of my favorite spots in Tucson. Come eat, bar hop and dance with us!

It’s a Sunday night in Sonora, 1954 and we’re going out on the town. You weave your way through the tables at one of the most infamous hot spots, Prohibición Moonshine. You order a Tom Collins at the bar and take a seat at your favorite table, full of anticipation, as you wait for the night’s entertainment to begin.

ALL BLACK & PINK ATTIRE
LIMITED SEATING
🤫https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sip-themed-musical-experience-tickets-1041513223087

“Sometimes, I feel discriminated against, but it does not make me angry. It merely astonishes me. How can any deny themselves the pleasure of my company? It’s beyond me.”

- Zora Neale Hurston

Photo Credit: Velvet and Shadow

SEEN NOT HEARD
Last night was one of my most memorable life experiences. The play I’ve been working on since the early 2000s materialized into a one act called Black Space. This was the first time the work was performed in public.

Black Space pulled excerpts from “The Black Woman Behind the Red Curtain” written from 2008-2018.

Thank you to The Projects for such an inspiring space and to all the beautiful women that attended.

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

About the artist:

Ashley La Russa is a local small business owner and entrepreneur. She has a BFA in Theatre Arts and has worked in professional theatrical spaces for over 20 years. This is her playwrighting debut.

About the venue:

The Projects is a Black and woman-owned art space in the infamous Pleasure World building in the heart of Tucson’s Historic Arts District.

Black Space is a one act play that explores identities through the POV of a Black Q***r Woman. The play takes place between 1990 - 2020 with topics ranging from abuse, femininity, alcoholism, survival, love, family, racism, business, death, marriage and mental health.

This is the first time this work is being performed in public. Black Space pulls excerpts from “The Black Woman Behind the Red Curtain” written from 2008-2018.

LIMITED SEATING
ONLY 20 SEATS
STANDING ROOM AVAILABLE

Disclaimer: This content may include explicit matters. Viewer discretion is advised. The intention is not to offend but to provide information. Proceed only if you are comfortable with potentially sensitive topics.

About the artist:

Ashley La Russa is a local small business owner and entrepreneur. She has a BFA in Theatre Arts and has worked in professional theatrical spaces for over 20 years. This is her playwrighting debut.

About the venue:

The Projects is a Black and woman-owned art space in the infamous Pleasure World building in the heart of Tucson’s Historic Arts District.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-space-tickets-961667943707

WHERE THE SPADES AND DOMINO PLAYERS?!

Bring Your Own Game Night at The Downtown Clifton

Wednesday, July 24 6pm

$2 off wells, wine, beer and 10% off food

Cigar friendly patio

Support a Black Owned Business EVERYDAY

Come chill next month…

Stevie Wonder, is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer. One of the most acclaimed and influential musicians of the 20th century, he is credited as a pioneer and influence by musicians across a range of genres. Join us on Friday, July 19th REVEL Tucson Wine Bar.

“Isn't she lovely!” This event is for the lovers of Stevie! Invite your friends out for a night of wine and charcuterie. Perfect event for dates and a Friday night out!

FOR THE LOVERS: STEVIE LISTENING PARTY Who loves Stevie Wonder?