As seen in the New York Times! Click to see our article!

Black Lives Matter

 

 

Rad Max Vintage stands with and behind Black Lives Matter. 

I, owner Laura Max McDonald, am white, straight and cis-female. I will never know the struggles faced by BIPOC Americans today or any day, but I will do everything in my power to support BIPOC and other minority groups with my business and in my personal life. 

When quarantine began, I began donating a portion of online sales to the LA Food Bank to help the homeless population in my city have access to food during this crisis.  Upon George Floyd's death I have decided to reallocate that donation to local initiatives that are helping Black lives. The first organization is Kindred Space LA - a Black female-run organization that is raising money for a Birthing Center that will allow pregnant women and new mothers access to important resources on a free or sliding scale. 

Having a small business is not easy. I am currently choosing these smaller initiatives (as opposed to the larger organizations) in hopes of making a direct difference in my community. I welcome recommendations of other small initiatives I can send my donations to. 

 

Here is a running list of small businesses that I truly love that are owned and operated by BIPOC and/or people who do not identify as straight or white:

- My photographer Tristan Onfroy who shoots every professional photo for my website and instagram. His photos are incredible and he's also one of my favorite humans. Please note - he does not shoot the product images and that's why they're janky AF. Every BEAUTIFUL image on this site is by him.

- Lit Soul Candles. Owned by Monica Rae, her candles are the ones I stock in my store. Her hand-made candles are sold in emptied cans, the food contents of which are donated to homeless shelters in LA. A great human, a great mother, and also a great mentor for me as I started my business. 

- Made in Claremont. Coasters and prints by my market friends Charles and Debra White. 

- Jae Jolly. Gorgeous resort collection fashion.

- Purple Fizz Sweets. Handmade INCREDIBLE cakes in Brooklyn.

- 1929 Galore. Incredible jewelry collection.

- Louise Goods. Handmade leather goods by Beka. 

- Panik.Ryder. Mobile clothing store in LA!

- Casa Lulo. Mobile clothing store in LA! With handmade swimsuits!!

- Holstere. Owned by Kristen Lu, a friend and business mentor. 

 

My heart remains open as I continue to learn and unlearn the racism ingrained in me as a white woman in this country. I apologize in advance for the mistakes I know I will make along this journey, and I welcome your feedback throughout. I am here listening and learning. 

 

With love,

Stay safe, stay healthy, stay Rad,

Laura Max