24 25 Black Pages - Flipbook - Page 67
A Tribute to an Outstanding Leader and Community Developer
Joshua “Josh” Michael Rogers
Leadership in Advancing African American Business Growth
and Downtown Revitalization
Josh Rogers, a driving force in revitalizing downtown, had a clear
and unwavering commitment to fostering economic inclusion for
African American businesses. Recognizing the systemic barriers
that have historically hindered Black entrepreneurs, he actively
championed initiatives designed to level the playing field and create
sustainable opportunities for minority business owners.
Two of his most transformative contributions were his partnership
with Alex Habersham and The Macon Black Pages to launch the
Downtown Diversity Initiative, a program specifically designed
to address the racial wealth gap and expand Black business
ownership in the downtown corridor. Under Rogers’ leadership, this
initiative significantly increased the presence of African American
entrepreneurs — the percentage of Black-owned businesses
increased from 18% to 27% in three years.
Secondly, Rogers empowered those around him to accomplish monumental feats, like the Redding
family and the Otis Redding Center for the Arts. Karla Redding, the center’s executive director,
shared: “I would call my friend in the midst of chaos and uncertainty and say, ‘I just don’t think I can
do this.’ He (Josh) would always respond, ‘Yes you can... stop saying that and just do what you have
always done... Just do it.’ With this ribbon cutting today, I look to the heavens and say to Josh, ‘I did it!’”
Beyond expanding business opportunities, Rogers was a vocal advocate for dismantling the lingering
effects of redlining in Black neighborhoods across Central Georgia. He consistently spoke out about
the economic disparities created by decades of discriminatory practices and was instrumental in
developing programs that not only raised awareness but also provided tangible solutions.
Understanding that access to capital is a critical factor in the success of Black-owned businesses,
Rogers played a key role in NewTown’s designation as a Community Development Financial
Institution (CDFI) — a vital resource aimed at addressing the funding challenges faced by
entrepreneurs of color. His leadership and business acumen helped African American business
owners gain better access to the financial resources needed to launch, sustain, and expand their
ventures.
Through his strategic initiatives and relentless advocacy, Josh Rogers solidified his legacy as a
champion for African American business growth, ensuring that downtown revitalization efforts
are not only prosperous but truly inclusive.
Though Josh passed on November 24, 2024, at the tender age of 42, his legacy is permanently
engraved in the hearts, minds, and history of Macon, Georgia.
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