Kim Kardashian Supports Black Business Gala Amid Melania Trump Controversy
Kim Kardashian is demonstrating her support for Black-owned businesses, even after facing backlash for her recent show of support for first lady Melania Trump.
The reality TV star and entrepreneur was seen at the Fifteen Percent Pledge gala held on Saturday night in Los Angeles. The Fifteen Percent Pledge is a nonprofit organization focused on racial equity and economic justice, advocating for major retailers to allocate 15% of their purchasing power to Black-owned businesses.
Kardashian looked stunning in a backless black dress by Balmain, which showcased a crocodile skin pattern on the bodice and featured sequin and sheer details.
Aurora James, the founder of the Fifteen Percent Pledge, alongside R&B singer Kelly Rowland, awarded grants for the 2025 Achievement Awards to three businesses: RedDrop received $200,000, Brooklyn Tea was awarded $35,000, and Bernard James took home $15,000.
Additionally, the second annual Sephora Beauty Grant, which amounts to $100,000 and aims to recognize outstanding Black beauty brands, was awarded to Sienna Naturals co-founders Hannah Diop and actress-comedian Issa Rae.
Kardashian’s appearance at the gala follows a political stir last month when she shared a photo on Instagram of Melania Trump at President Donald Trump’s inauguration. She posted this image without any caption or explanation, and hasn’t commented on it since.
Despite her close ties with first daughter Ivanka Trump, the Skims creator and her famous family typically keep their political views low-profile and tend to lean Democratic when they do express them.
Many fans criticized Kardashian on social media for what they interpreted as her endorsement of the Trump family, with one commenter stating, “girl…. sold out for far right maga propaganda.”
Back in 2016, Kardashian supported former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in her campaign against President Trump, who ended up winning. After President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris won the 2020 election, she posted three blue hearts on X along with a picture of them.
