My name is Tina Bartlett. My husband Tim and I are proud Black entrepreneurs and owners of a Fat Tuesday franchise in Raleigh, NC. Fat Tuesday is a national brand known for its frozen cocktails, fun atmosphere, and commitment to community.

Over the past several years, we have worked hard to grow our business and expand into new locations around Raleigh. However, despite Fat Tuesday being a proven national brand, we have faced repeated denials from a major commercial real estate firm when requesting to lease spaces downtown — even while other bar and restaurant concepts were accepted into those same or nearby properties.

We believe that every business — regardless of who owns it — deserves a fair opportunity to compete for commercial space. Minority-owned businesses like ours are an important part of Raleigh’s growth, diversity, and culture.

We are now pursuing a federal case to ensure fairness, accountability, and equal access to leasing opportunities for minority business owners. But as you may know, legal action against a major corporation is very expensive. Our attorney requires a retainer to begin this case, and we cannot do it alone.

That is why we are asking for your support. Your donation will go directly toward legal expenses that will allow us to move forward with this case.

This fight is bigger than us — it is about opening doors for other minority-owned businesses who deserve the same shot at success. Together, we can help level the playing field.

Thank you so much for standing with us. Every contribution — no matter the size — helps. Please also share this campaign with others who believe in justice, fairness, and opportunity.

— Tim and Tina