Julian Durden has plans to open the first Black-owned brewery in Chesapeake, Virginia.
Durden, who is the founder and master brewer at Precise Pints Brewing Company, is currently making craft beer in his home.
“I have been brewing for some time now and see a huge need to expand the craft beer industry further into my area,” he said. “I want to focus on crafting both old school and new age ales & lagers, deep community ties and really make everyone feel like they have a place to be themselves and call home.”
Durden is a member of the local brew club as well as The American Homebrewers Association where he noticed that the majority of members are people who do not look like him.
“In my homebrew club, as far as I know, I’m the only black guy,” said Durden.
He adds that he’s trying to break the mold in this industry and bring a level of diversity for all to enjoy.
“For me it’s not about getting rich. It’s not about just having customers. It’s not about greed or anything like that, it’s about just [wanting] to share what I enjoy, what I’m capable of, with everybody, to where everybody feels welcome. Everybody feels at home,” he explained.
There’s currently a GoFundMe set up to help with the start-up costs of a brick-and-mortar: a place he hopes will serve as a safe space to enjoy a pint.
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“It’s extremely difficult for me to secure funding as many banks and investors don’t see past certain characteristics to view the ultimate goal so, I’m asking for support from anyone who has the ability to help me achieve this dream,” said Durden.