Having served as the publisher for more than 31 years, Barnes, 70, praised African American entrepreneurship and its impact on the community. “My grandfather grew his landscaping business at a time when it was tough for Black business,” she said before offering a call to action. “We don’t need to work in silos, we can work together.”Griffin, chair of the Greater Washington DC Black Chamber of Commerce, said contracting opportunities for African American businesses are at risk in the present political climate. “But I want Black businesses not to get discouraged. We are coaching Black businesses to stay focused and keep going.