The Takoma/Langley Crossroads Development Authority’s Inaugural Legacy Business Week, June 1-7, is designed to recognize and celebrate small businesses that have served the community for more a decade.
For the inaugural legacy recognition, TLCDA selected a variety of businesses that highlighted the importance of food and products, the community of professionals (doctors, dentists), and especially the rich history of culturally specific clothing and fabrics. The first 5 of 10 overall awardees to be recognized over a two-day span have served the community for a combined 169 years, ranging from 17 to 55 years in business.
Takoma Park Mayor Talisha Searcy, along with other local dignitaries, joined the walking celebrations at each location.
“We wanted to celebrate the history of entrepreneurship in Takoma Park and the DMV. The Crossroads has been known for its immigrant entrepreneurship, building generational wealth for their families and community,” said Javier Rivas, Executive Director of the Takoma/Langley Crossroads Development Authority. “Takoma Park and Montgomery County, we pride ourselves on being a diverse community. This is it. This is part of that, so we need to keep celebrating that and, beyond celebration, find ways to make sure these businesses endure,” added Rivas.
Silvia Huezo, now the second-generation owner of Pupuseria El Comalito, said the ceremony meant a great deal to her family. “It’s exciting to be celebrating this business today, more exciting to be honoring my parents, their legacy, their hard work, their blood, sweat, and tears, just having a moment where they are recognized and feel like their hard work has paid off”.
To learn more about the Legacy program and all of the awardees, visit the Legacy Business Website
