08/09/2026
SUPPORT THE LEGACY—NOT JUST THE NAME.
Harold’s Chicken was founded by a Black entrepreneur, Harold Pierce, who built a respected brand while serving communities that were too often overlooked. That history matters.
Whatever family or business changes may have occurred since his death, I’m disappointed when I see establishments benefiting from the recognition associated with Harold’s while presenting branding that appears disconnected from the man and legacy that made the name valuable in the first place.
Consumers need to pay attention. Just because a restaurant uses a familiar name, number, logo, recipe style, or history doesn’t necessarily mean you’re supporting the original family legacy you think you are supporting.
If we expect major corporations to respect trademarks, ownership, intellectual property, and a founder’s legacy, we should expect the same from neighborhood businesses.
And changing the image associated with Harold? That especially bothers me. Harold Pierce was a Black man. His story is part of Chicago’s Black business history, and that history shouldn’t be erased, diluted, or rewritten simply because people recognize and trust the name.
Before you spend your money, know who and what you are supporting. If necessary, drive a little farther to support businesses that respect ownership, legacy, and the communities that helped build the brand.
Our dollars are votes. Spend them where the history—and the people who created it—are respected.
Protect the legacy. Respect ownership. Know where your money goes.