In today’s world, where every dollar we spend sends a message, choosing where we shop, dine, and invest our money has never been more important. That’s where the concept of a “blue business” comes in—businesses that align with progressive values, support human rights, and contribute to an equitable and inclusive society. At RoesList, we’re proud to highlight and uplift these businesses, creating a community where conscious consumers can shop with confidence.
Defining a Blue Business
A blue business is one that actively upholds and promotes values such as, but not limited to:
- Reproductive rights – Supporting women’s access to healthcare, including reproductive care, and refusing to fund anti-choice organizations.
- LGBTQIA+ inclusivity – Creating safe, welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals, advocating for equal rights, and ensuring fair workplace policies.
- Racial equity – Standing against discrimination, supporting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-owned businesses, and fostering diverse, equitable workplaces.
These businesses understand that their role in society goes beyond just making a profit. They are committed to policies and practices that contribute to a fairer, more just world.
Why Supporting Blue Businesses Matters
We live in a time when large corporations often funnel money into political candidates, PACs, and causes that don’t align with the values of equality, inclusivity, and justice. Many national chains and widely recognized brands donate to anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation, fund organizations that limit reproductive rights, or fail to implement fair labor practices.
Every time we make a purchase, we are making a choice about the kind of world we want to live in. Supporting local, values-driven businesses means:
- Keeping money in communities that share your values – When we support small businesses that stand for equality, we strengthen our local economies and create opportunities for growth among diverse communities.
- Rejecting corporate funding of harmful policies – By shopping at blue businesses, we ensure our money doesn’t end up funding political candidates or policies that go against fundamental human rights.
- Building a future where businesses are accountable – When consumers demand ethical business practices, companies listen. Supporting blue businesses signals that values matter.
Examples of Blue Businesses in Action
Imagine choosing to buy your morning coffee from a local café that’s women-owned and actively supports reproductive rights instead of a chain that donates to anti-choice legislation. Or dining at a restaurant that prioritizes fair wages and employs a diverse staff rather than one that lobbies against minimum wage increases.
Think of a bookstore that stocks diverse, inclusive literature and donates a portion of its profits to LGBTQIA+ youth programs. Or an online clothing brand that not only sources sustainable materials but also ensures its workers—no matter their background—are paid fairly and treated with dignity.
These are the kinds of businesses we champion at RoesList. Businesses that don’t just talk about values, but live them.
How You Can Make an Impact
If you believe in a future that upholds human rights, you have more power than you think. Here’s how you can be part of the movement:
- Choose where you spend your money wisely – Seek out and support businesses that align with your values.
- Use RoesList to find businesses that share your beliefs – Our directory is designed to help you make informed choices.
- Ask businesses about their policies – The more consumers demand transparency, the more businesses will be encouraged to take a stand.
- Spread the word – Share information about blue businesses with friends, family, and social networks to create a ripple effect.
Join us! Use the Directory, Add Your Business
The simple act of choosing where to spend your money can have a profound impact. In a political climate where basic rights are constantly under threat, supporting blue businesses is more than just shopping—it’s activism. It’s voting with your dollars. It’s building a world that reflects the values of equality, justice, and inclusivity.
At RoesList, we believe in a future where businesses and consumers work together to create meaningful change. Join us in making every purchase count.