Revitalizing Bluffton: Gullah Culture and Entrepreneurship Shine at Roots & Rivers Festival

Revitalizing Bluffton: A Celebration of Gullah Culture and Local Entrepreneurs

Bluffton, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as it gears up for a unique festival that not only celebrates the rich Gullah culture but also supports local Black-owned businesses. The second annual Roots & Rivers Festival is set to take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 2 to 8 p.m. at the scenic Oyster Factory Park.

A Gathering Place for Community and Culture

The festival, which made its debut in 2023, was born from the inspiring efforts of a nonprofit organization called BlacQuity. Founded by Bluffton councilwoman Bridgette Frazier and entrepreneur Billy Watterson, BlacQuity aims to elevate, empower, and promote Black entrepreneurship in the area. Frazier expressed a desire to help local entrepreneurs gain access to resources, saying, “We’ve always had the skills, but when it comes to leveraging the playing field, we cannot do that on our own.” This sentiment guided their creation of the organization in response to the growing need for support following the tragic death of George Floyd Jr. in 2020.

The necessity for a central resource to support Black business owners sparked the formation of Black Equity University, an educational program that equips participants with vital business knowledge and skills. The course covers everything from creating a profit and loss statement to becoming bonded and insured. Graduates of the program have diversified the local economy, spanning industries like food, health, photography, and beyond.

A Tribute to Cultural Heritage

Alongside the entrepreneurial focus, the festival is a heartfelt celebration of Gullah culture, which has deep roots in Bluffton. The area has a rich history influenced by African traditions, particularly through the impacts of General Sherman’s Special Field Order No. 15 in 1865. This order saw the land redistributed to freedmen, fostering a community that thrived for generations. However, as Frazier noted, the landscape of Black-owned businesses has sadly diminished over the years. Today, BlacQuity actively works to change that trend.

“We are the roots,” Frazier passionately states, emphasizing the essential roles that Black communities have played throughout history—whether as midwives, fishermen, or educators. The festival aims to reinforce this heritage while promoting local businesses. Each vendor present at the event has graduated from the Black Equity University, showcasing the capability of these entrepreneurs and the support available to them.

What to Expect at the Festival

Festival-goers can look forward to an afternoon filled with lively entertainment, featuring local food trucks, a beer garden, and a live band to keep the energy high. It’s an ideal setting for discovering unique goods, enjoying delicious food, and connecting with community members. This year’s event promises to be even more special as participants celebrate the strength of local business and Gullah heritage.

Future Plans for Empowering Entrepreneurs

As BlacQuity continues to thrive, Frazier and Watterson have bold plans ahead, including the creation of Ma Daisy’s Porch, a gathering place that will highlight Gullah culture year-round. This space aims to combine a bar, restaurant, and bakery, reflecting the flavors and traditions of the region.

Moreover, BlacQuity plans to introduce a pitch night inspired by shows like “Shark Tank,” allowing entrepreneurs to seek funding and guidance for their projects. There’s also a networking mixer in the works, aimed at connecting local entrepreneurs with essential resources, like the Department of Commerce and Minority-Owned Business Enterprise Certifications.

Looking Ahead

With a goal to expand their impact beyond Bluffton and into the Lowcountry, Frazier emphasizes the importance of partnerships. Building relationships with organizations such as the Beaufort Black Chamber and the Gullah Geechee Business Coalition will be vital in fostering a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs. “We want this to grow beyond the Lowcountry,” she notes, envisioning a future where Black entrepreneurs have equitable opportunities.

As Bluffton prepares for the Roots & Rivers Festival, the community stands ready to celebrate its culture and support its local trailblazers, keeping Gullah traditions alive while paving the way for future success. So mark your calendars, bring your friends, and let’s make this festival a memorable one!