Essence's Place in Black Culture

Black History Month. An annual celebration dedicated to the achievements of African Americans and recognizing their contributions to American society. February, the shortest month of the year, marks the time where many corporations honor those within the black community. Essence, a black owned company specifically targeting black women, is one brand that has not dropped the ball when it comes to celebrating everyone black. Founded in 1968 by four black men, it was a revolutionary moment in African American history. Essence has now expanded into a communications brand. They have developed a number of projects and events that give unparalleled support to the black community.

On February 13, 2020, Essence Fashion House held an event in New York City. They described the purpose as a way “to celebrate and support the creative genius and talent of our community.” It was a vivacious day filled with talks, designers, and a fashion show. Every individual showcased at this event were people in the industry dedicated to exalting black culture. It did not matter whether these individuals were renowned or just emerging in the industry; Essence gave them that space.

Abigaelle Auguste, a sophomore at LIM College, is one of the many people that attended the event. As an aspiring stylist, creative director, and upcycling designer, this was one event she couldn’t miss. She acknowledges Essence as a great platform with admirable events and worthy content. Auguste also believes this event created a space for black individuals.

“They created a space for you to learn and also feel inspired, but it is all about what people take from it,” Auguste states.

So, what are the messages that Essence wants you to take away?

A week before the Fashion House event, Essence held their annual Black Women in Hollywood luncheon that honored notable black actresses, directors, and producers. Some of the guests included Issa Rae, Ava DuVernay, Kerry Washington, and Gabrielle Union.

This luncheon also honored black queer women in Hollywood. Janet Mock, the executive producer of POSE, a television series about New York City’s African American and Latino LGBTQ ballroom culture, gave a speech that no one in the room would ever forget.

“Too often black trans women and black queer and gender non-conforming folk put their bodies on the line every day to be themselves. … We as a culture do not acknowledge that trans women are women, that black bodies are valuable, and that black trans girls and black trans women are worthy of our protection and care.”

In addition to being a luncheon, it was also an award ceremony. Some recipients include the entire crew of POSE, Melina Matsoukas, Niecy Nash, and Lashana Lynch. There was no mistake that this event took place during award season, a season where black women are often left behind and forgotten. This year’s Oscar nominees included only one black woman, Cynthia Erivo, and the lack of diversity is far too prominent.

Essence is changing the perception of the black community to the world and within the community itself. They did not hesitate to celebrate black history month the only way they knew how, honoring the black community. The Fashion House and Black Women in Hollywood Awards are just two events of the many that Essence has done for black culture. The overarching take away message is this: In a time where African Americans, especially women, are often silenced, they are giving them a voice. Beyond that, they are giving black queer individuals a platform in order to be seen and heard. Essence is exactly what this culture needs. Essentially, they are the ultimate celebration of blackness.

Essence Fashion House from September of 2019