You may recall a past post about how Naomi Campbell was boycotting NYC Fashion Week because of the consistently appalling lack of Black models featured in the shows. Then, wonder of all wonders, we come to find out that Sean "Diddy" Combs of all people was taking a stand by planning an all Black fashion show of his own to re-introduce himself to the show-going public after 5 years of being absent from that scene.
Lots of folk (including myself) weren't sure if we could believe the rumor. But here is video of the "Only-Black-Folk-Need-Apply" open casting call he had just a few days ago.
Some thoughts....
1. Did you catch what "Lamar" said? So these designers think it's okay to keep us all behind the scenes modeling in the showroom, but we can't show our face in the light of day in their shows!? Makes me think of that Langston Hughes poem..."I am the darker brother...They send me to eat in the kitchen when company comes..."
2. I love "Adora's" hair! Natural and lovely.
3. Do you really think those twins are gonna stick together if Diddy only calls one of them?
4. Bethann Hardison (legendary model; model manager; and mom of Kadeem Hardison, "Dwayne Wayne" from A Different World): A real soldier in the struggle in activism for Black model rights. Keep up the good work!
4. Do you think if they had an open casting that said "All Black Single Men and Women: Only FINE Brothas and Sistas need apply...," would these same people show up?
Some of you might think that any mental energy spent on Diddy or fashion is a waste of time and superficial. But consider that we are living in a world where the majority of our young people are deeply influenced by the images and the messages (subliminal and otherwise) that are put forth in the media. True, not many average Black youth are watching fashion shows, but if you know anything about the industry, trends that start on the runway, including the "look" of the models, eventually trickle down to ready-to-wear and the advertising we see in magazines and local TV.
So for what it's worth, hats off to Diddy!
(If anyone actually SAW the fashion show, live or on TV, or has a link to video, please let me know!)
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