Small businesses in Seattle are an essential tool for economic opportunity and mobility, particularly for people of color. Small businesses have been disproportionally impacted during the Covid-19 pandemic and its subsequent economic crisis, which will last for years to come.  During this historic period, we also recognize this moment of shifting ideology and policies, and the global fight for racial and social justice.

As we reckon with generations of systemic racism, particularly towards Black and Brown people, we are left with redefining what public safety – both existing and reimagined - means in our city.  Small businesses are an integral part of the conversation and solution.

Therefore, the Seattle Neighborhood Business Districts have drafted a Seattle Small Business Pledge to redefine the expectations on behalf of our small business community.  The Pledge lists basic needs and safety measures to ensure clean, safe, welcoming and vibrant business districts. Small businesses should be able to operate within their storefronts safely, employees should be able to go to work without fear of being physically or verbally accosted, and customers should feel safe patronizing their local business and accessing personal services.

By registering your support below (Sec. 3), the Small Business Community can effectively engage Seattle City Council and the Mayor's Office to adopt the expectations outlined in the Seattle Small Business Pledge (Sec. 2), ushering in a road map for a more prosperous future for all small businesses in Seattle.

Thank you.