Danny’s Story

Danny Sermons, Danye’ Francois Paris
Dallas, TX

For me, the dominos began to fall quick and fall hard. Earlier this year I lost my job at a major department store, let go because of the pandemic. As a result, I lost the income that I have been using to finance my business—several clothing lines and brands I’ve been developing over the last decade. 

I’m determined to meet this challenge and use this opportunity to take the next step with my business. At this point, I’d trust myself to provide for my family more than I trust another company to do it. 

I’ve been on my own to build my business since the beginning. I’ve done it without a team and out of my own pocket—and I’ve been successful. I’ve shown my lines at 18 fashion shows and several fashion weeks, with showcases in Atlanta, Jacksonville and New Orleans. 

But there is only so far I can take myself and the pandemic and recession have shrunk my options even further. The world has been shaken up, and people are doing what they can to take care of themselves and their families. I’ve decided that strengthening my business is the best path for me. But I may not get the opportunity to do so. 

When I heard about the PPP and EIDL loans, I applied immediately. I did receive a small sum under the EIDL program but I was rejected for the PPP. Since then I’ve looked for every other opportunity but it’s been closed door after closed door. 

I have a strong business plan and years of experience. I have a track record of success in my field. But when our country—including thousands of small businesses like mine—has been plunged into crisis, I can’t get the help that I need. 

We’ve got to pull together to overcome all that we’re facing, but we can’t leave some behind in the process. We need to build back better—that means not privileging some while holding back others. We’ve seen how that plays out. It’s time for a better, more inclusive plan.