Day 9. Roy A Hastick Sr a Champion of Caribbean American Business
Today, we honor Roy A. Hastick Sr., a Grenadian-born leader whose life’s work centered on empowering Caribbean American entrepreneurs, advocating for immigrant communities, and ensuring that the economic contributions of Caribbean Americans were recognized and supported.
Building Bridges, Creating Opportunity
Arriving in the U.S. in the early 1970s, Roy Hastick began as a social worker, newspaper publisher, and community organizer. But his greatest legacy came in 1985, when he founded the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) in New York City—a transformative force that became a lifeline for thousands of immigrant-owned businesses.
“Caribbean immigrants contribute to the economic vitality of America. We must organize and advocate so that our voices are heard, and our work is valued.” — Roy A. Hastick Sr.
An Advocate for Entrepreneurship and Inclusion
Hastick envisioned CACCI as more than a networking group. Under his leadership, it became a policy advocate, business incubator, and a cultural convener that helped immigrant entrepreneurs gain access to capital, training, and city contracts. CACCI helped secure over $50 million in contracts for small businesses and promoted entrepreneurship as a pathway to prosperity and community empowerment.
Whether mentoring youth, convening citywide Caribbean heritage celebrations, or building bridges between immigrant businesses and mainstream economic institutions, Hastick centered Caribbean identity as a source of power.
“He was not just a business advocate—he was a builder of people, community, and pride.” — Hon. Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn
Stories of Resilience and Impact
Roy Hastick’s tireless work earned him numerous honors, including citations from the New York State Assembly and recognition from mayors, governors, and community leaders. Even after his passing in 2020 due to complications from COVID-19, his legacy endures in the thousands of businesses CACCI helped grow and the cultural confidence he fostered in the Caribbean American community.
His story is a reminder that economic justice is social justice, and that thriving businesses can be powerful engines of self-determination and community resilience.
Learn More About Roy A. Hastick Sr. and CACCI
📚 Articles & Tributes:
Spectrum News on NY 1: The Passing of Dr Ray Hastick, Sr
Caribbean Life News Feature Profile of Dr Roy Haastick, Sr
🎥 Watch:
One Caribbean TV: Dr Roy Hastick Sr tells us about the vibrant influence the Caribbean has on the US
The State of New York and NY City Tributes and Honor profile videos of Dr Roy Hastick Sr
Today’s Reflection
Roy A. Hastick Sr. believed in the power of community-led economic development. His life challenges us to ask:
What does it mean to create systems where immigrant dreams are not only possible, but supported?
How can we continue his legacy by investing in local entrepreneurs and advocating for economic equity in our communities?
Join us each day this month as we spotlight a different Caribbean American whose legacy calls us to reflect, learn, and celebrate. These stories are about community, culture, and the contributions that come from the rich intersections of heritage and homeland. Our weekly themes will help guide us through different aspects of Caribbean American influence—from activism to art, invention to entrepreneurship—creating a mosaic of identity that is as joyful as it is complex.
For more information and access to other events, sign our Guestbook!
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