Juneteenth: An Ambassador’s Reflection
by Alex Mitchell
Growing up in Oakland I was always aware of Juneteenth but it felt like a special secret holiday only for the Black community. A ritual and celebration that was discussed in church or with friends and family was never discussed on a broader scale. Never celebrated by other cultures or even discussed in school. In many ways to have Juneteenth celebrated as a national holiday feels exciting and long overdue.
In many ways, it’s a second Independence Day in America and I think that’s valid. The first to celebrate our freedom from the British on July 4th, and the second to celebrate the freedom from slavery on June 19th. As we are acutely aware the ills of slavery and prejudice did not end on June 19th, 1865, but as people we have continued to overcome and strive, making invaluable contributions to our country in the process.
In fashion, some of the early Black fashion influencers are not well known or given credit for their innovations or contributions to history. From Ann Lowe, who was the first major Black fashion designer and designer of Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress, to Willi Smith’s pioneering street style in the 1980s. Many of these early originators have not been celebrated for their contributions to fashion and aren’t credited. This Juneteenth I want to celebrate and honor those Black Americans who have had an influence on the history of Fashion as well as current Black designers who are influential leaders in the sustainable fashion movement.
As we all are becoming increasingly aware, the fashion industry, and specifically fast fashion, is horrible for the environment. Each year we learn more and more about the harmful effects on our environment. From manufacturing, to throughout the supply chain, and even after the garment has been used there are waste, pollution, and/or human rights issues to address. However, now that we all know what the problem is what are the solutions? I’d like to highlight some amazing Black designers who are doing their part to not only bring awareness to the issues of climate change but are working to push the ball forward on sustainability in fashion and create collections with the environment in mind as well as address certain social justice concerns.
Aurora James is the founder of the US-based non-profit Fifteen Percent Pledge and luxury accessories brand Brother Vellies. Starting in 2013 James’ label, Brother Vellies, began selling shoes manufactured in Africa, her goal was to highlight the artisans that manufactured her shoes. Brother Vellies has always been committed to sustainability, making their shoes and accessories without the use of harmful dyes and chemicals. Taking extra care to also keep in mind the well-being and treatment of the artisans they work with. Brother Vellies’ has also expanded its manufacturing to South America, Mexico, and even New York.
Tracy Reece began her fashion line over twenty years ago and is still finding ways to reinvent herself. From her start in 1998 Reece has dressed the biggest stars like the former First Lady Michelle Obama, her clothes have graced the pages of major fashion publications and she has enjoyed long-standing relationships with several important retailers like Saks and Bergdorf Goodman. At the height of her career, Reece decided to move her company and its production to her hometown of Detroit, slowing her production to focus on a more sustainable and slow fashion label. She’s a part of a larger movement in the area to make Detroit a hub for sustainable clothing production.
Founded by Brittany Kozerski, JADE Swim is a sustainable brand designed in New York and manufactured in Los Angeles. As a former fashion marketing editor for Marie Claire, Brittany noticed a space in the market for a sophisticated and sustainable swimwear brand. Her use of bold color, sexy silhouettes, and simplicity have gained the attention of customers and numerous publications.
As a mother and Black woman celebrating these women and their commitment to social justice as well as combating climate change is what Juneteenth is all about. Juneteenth is not just a time to look back and celebrate all that Black Americans have had to endure and overcome. It has become a chance to reflect on all that we are. All the ways in which Black people continue to rise, achieve, innovate, and create all while expertly handling the painful burdens history has laid upon us. This year my family celebrated Juneteenth at a cookout with some of our dearest friends who have become like family. As we grow and expand our respective families, gathering and celebrating like this feel even more precious. The opportunity to create new traditions and ways to share and honor our history with our children is priceless.
Juneteenth is not just a time to look back and celebrate all that Black Americans have had to endure and overcome. It has become a chance to reflect on all that we are.
I am forever proud of the profound ways Black Americans achieve and persevere even when the deck is stacked against them. I never want to forget my history or ignore its presence but there is so much to celebrate and look forward to as a Black American in this country. There are countless Black leaders in all industries making profound contributions not just to pop culture and fashion but to all facets of life, just as there have always been. Juneteenth is a time for celebration. A time to celebrate not just the freedom of our enslaved ancestors but also a time to look forward and celebrate who we are today and how far we have come.
Alex Mitchell is a Custom Collaborative Ambassador, maker, and fashion designer. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two children.