Kim Kardashian is lending her support to Black-owned businesses, even as she faces backlash over a recent social media post featuring former First Lady Melania Trump.
The reality star and entrepreneur attended the Fifteen Percent Pledge gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night. The nonprofit advocates for racial equity by urging major retailers to dedicate 15% of their purchasing power to Black-owned businesses.
Kardashian made a statement in a backless Balmain gown with crocodile-embossed detailing and sheer, sequined embellishments. The event, hosted by Fifteen Percent Pledge founder Aurora James and R&B icon Kelly Rowland, awarded grants to three standout businesses.
RedDrop received $200,000, Brooklyn Tea secured $35,000, and Bernard James was granted $15,000. The Sephora Beauty Grant, an annual $100,000 award recognizing excellence in Black-owned beauty brands, went to Sienna Naturals, co-founded by Hannah Diop and actress-comedian Issa Rae.
Kardashian’s appearance comes amid controversy over her Instagram story last month, where she …