Illinois honors Black brewers with first-of-its-kind proclamation

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — For the first time ever, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is recognizing Black brewers for their contributions to the industry.

Pritzker issued a proclamation that recognizes Oct. 10 as National Black Brewers Day in the state of Illinois. It is the first statewide celebration of its kind, drawing on the National Black Brewers Association’s (NBBA) successful introduction of Black Brewers Day a few years ago.

The proclamation was signed earlier this month in collaboration with the NBBA and the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild.

“According to the National Black Brewers Association, fewer than 1% of breweries are Black owned,” said Ray Stout, Executive Director of the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild. “This recognition is a significant step toward honoring the contributions of Black brewers to our vibrant craft beer community and promoting diversity within the industry.”

The day includes a celebratory event at Turner Haus, Bronzeville (Chicago’s first Black-owned brewery and taproom) on Oct. 10 at 5:00 p.m. This celebration includes offerings from other Black-owned breweries in Illinois, such as Moor’s Brewing, Funkytown, Black Horizon Brewing and Harold’s ’83 honey beer.

“We are committed to fostering a diverse brewing landscape in Illinois and look forward to celebrating this important day as an industry,” Stout said.

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