Recognizing February As Black History Month and Reflection on the Legacy of Black Businesses

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, during Black History Month, to reflect on the legacy builders that contributed to the rich entrepreneurial history and culture of the great city of Chicago and beyond. Manufacturing, banking, retail, grocery, and restaurant ownership are among the industries that the 6 Collins brothers dominated on the south and west sides of Chicago for more than 50 years.

The eldest Collins, Ernest T., founded Seaway National Bank in 1965 and was credited with pioneering the 24-hour supermarket concept at his four grocery store locations called The Food Basket, founded in 1952. Argia B. Collins, Sr., the youngest Collins brother, an accomplished restaurateur, created Chicago's original barbecue sauce brand--Argia B's Mumbo Sauce in 1950. Crafted as a signature sauce for his popular southside restaurants, the Mumbo Sauce brand debuted in a national advertising campaign in Life magazine. Collins not only tantalized the taste buds of Chicagoans but also became an integral part of the local community. A visionary entrepreneur and champion of small business, Argia B. was passionate about economic development and the growth of the African American business community. In fact, Collins was involved with Operation Breadbasket, a program initiated in 1966 by Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. through the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) to address economic issues affecting African American communities. He assumed a key position in operation breadbasket's efforts in Chicago, working alongside Reverend Jesse Jackson and other business leaders in the Chicago chapter. Argia B. utilized his business acumen to help advance the organization's goals, particularly in promoting economic empowerment and financial opportunities for African American businesses. The association with Operation Breadbasket resulted in the Argia B's Mumbo Sauce brand being among the first products manufactured by an African American company to gain chain-wide distribution with major grocery retailers in 1967. Other Chicago brands that were part of this significant campaign included Joe Louis Milk Company, Parker House Sausage, Grove Fresh Orange Juice, and Conway Cleaning Products, all quality brands created and manufactured by African American producers.

I recognize and commend the contributions of the Collins brothers and the other African American business vanguards of the Operation Breadbasket movement which embody the spirit of resilience and ingenuity that defines the city and exemplifies the legacy of Black entrepreneurship. Indeed, the Collins family's Chicago roots run deep, anchoring them to the values of integrity, generosity, and solidarity that define the city's spirit.

Today, Allison Collins, the daughter of Argia B., carries the torch of her father's vision as CEO of Select Brands, preserving its important 74-year legacy and ensuring that the spirit of the Mumbo Sauce brand continues to thrive. The company has expanded the distribution of Argia B's mumbo barbecue sauce beyond the confines of Chicago. Over the years, mumbo sauce's popularity has soared, and it is now prominently displayed on retail shelves across the country. This iconic sauce brings a taste of our city's culinary excellence to households nationwide, showcasing the enduring appeal of the company's 74-year commitment to quality and flavor. This accomplishment not only underscores the sauce's widespread appeal but also reflects select brands' dedication to sharing the flavors of Chicago worldwide.

Again, I thank the Collins family for their tireless efforts and unwavering devotion to the city of Chicago. Their legacy will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.

We wish them continued success.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source