WICHITA FALLS, Texas (KAUZ) -Dwight Haywood is no stranger to the Wichita Falls area and the business world.
After having to close the first time in 2007 due to personal reasons.
This last year he has shown that hard work and the support of the community can make a world of difference.
“This was a struggle, a big struggle here. I had a lot of help. Couldn’t have made it without my community.” The owner of Wang and Thangs, Dwight Haywood said.
When you walk into Wang and Thangs you see a little history of the east side.
With February being black history month I asked Haywood how his business plans on celebrating.
“Being here. Just being here. Just the presence of being here. At this point, there’s not many over here now.” Haywood said.
He went on to say that supporting black businesses is about survival.
“Because without we can’t survive as a race of people. There is no way we can make it without it. It’s hand in hand with the community. If you don’t have any black-owned businesses the money can’t circulate in the community.” Haywood said.
When it comes to black history month Haywood takes pride in it.
“It’s everything for me. I couldn’t be prouder of my history, my ancestors, where I come from. You don’t know where you are going to unless you know where you come from and I am proud to be a black American in this country. I love America.” Haywood said.
Haywoods says it’s hard for an entrepreneur no matter the race.
When it comes to community engagement. Haywood helped a young man start a laundromat and he also gave away free meals during the Christmas holiday.
After achieving his goal of opening Wangs and Thangs. Haywood now wants to light a fire for the rest of the community.
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