Black History Month: Dr. Cheryl Jackson

The Plano Chamber recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Black leaders, scholars, professionals, and more – today, throughout #BlackHistoryMonth, and beyond. In honor of Black History Month, we are putting the spotlight on a few of the many amazing local Black professionals and leaders that make a difference in our community.

Dr. Cheryl Jackson – Founder, Minnie’s Food Pantry 

Tell us about what you do.
I founded Minnie’s Food Pantry, in honor of my late mother Minnie Hawthorne-Ewing from a place of personal experience and pain in trying to feed my own two children; struggling to make ends-meet while working five jobs collectively with my husband. It was difficult to not only find the support we needed but more importantly be seen without the stigma and inferiority often associated with “hunger”. Each day I have the opportunity to provide not only healthy meals but encouragement and hope to a parent, grandparent or veteran who is looking for something as simple as their next meal. At Minnie’s, what we serve is just as important as the manner in which we serve!

Shine a light! What is one of your favorite local Black-owned businesses?
So many to name just one! Tender Smokehouse has, hands down, some of the greatest BBQ I’ve ever tried and I cannot say enough good things about my friend Chef Tiffany at Roots Chicken Shak and Roots Southern Table! Serita Jakes Home brings me a level of peace and comfort that everyone should experience through her candles and teas!

What ways do you suggest that members of our community celebrate Black History Month?
Share a kind word: Uplift and celebrate our melanin-poppin’ brothers and sisters! Make it a point to shop from and support black owned businesses. Even if you don’t have the means to purchase, sharing/spreading the word makes all the difference. Never stop learning from those who came before us and always make a conscience effort to pave a path for the ones that are coming after us.

Anything else that you’d like to add?
Black is Beautiful. Black is Brilliant. Black is Bold. Black is Brave. Black is ME!

Dr. Cheryl Jackson is currently serving as the first Black president of the Plano Chamber’s Women’s Division. Learn more about the Women’s Division HERE.