There’s no doubt our associate spotlight series has been the highlight of our Black History Month celebration! This week, we’re excited to introduce a few members of our #YOUinrue style community. These three have made an impact in the fashion world across social media and we’re proud to consider them as part of the rue21 fam.
Joe Watkins
How do you plan to celebrate Black History Month?
“This Black History Month, I want to celebrate by appreciating more Black creatives. Whether singers, content creators, brand owners, artists etc. I want to intentionally make an effort to support these people in their crafts and fields where they’re often overlooked and undervalued. There is so much talent and inspiration that Black people radiate into the world and I want to support that.”
What does black history and culture personally mean to you?
“Black history and culture are very important to me. Having knowledge and appreciation of both contribute immensely to my identity as a Black person as well as the identity of many other Black people. Especially in a society that has historically and systemically suppressed Black people, my history and culture are the reason I am able to feel comfortable and proud to be in my own skin.”
Can you share any fond and special memories that you have of growing up?
“Some of my most fond memories growing up are of the times spent with my family and siblings listening to music. My dad always played, and still plays, lots of Motown music with artists like Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Jackson 5, Diana Ross, etc. Not only are these artists extremely influential figures for the Black community, but their talent and music will always be a place of comfort and a feeling of home for me. Whenever I listen to them, I’m always reminded of those times and family!”
Is there a coming-of-age moment that you can share with us?
“I’m currently a college student, but I’ve had my fair share of struggles in the university academic system. I was originally on a pre-med track and had intended to become a doctor but honestly, I think I must have eaten one too many apples. Freshmen year biology and chemistry made it pretty clear that wasn’t the path for me. That internal crisis, caused by my 18/19-year-old self trying to figure out the rest of my life, is what I’d choose as a pretty notable coming-of-age moment in my life. Between taking time away from school and paying off loans and tuition, I grew a lot personally from that crisis. I actually discovered and developed my interest in streetwear and fashion and started my personal page during this period. I’m currently 24 and I thank God he’s given me the opportunity to be back in school with the hope of finishing up soon. While it’s not the most conventional path, I’d like it to serve as an example and inspiration to others who might have similar struggles and I hope it shows that sometimes things take time and that’s okay.”
When do you feel the most you?
“I feel most myself both when I’m laughing with and spending time with family and friends, and also when I’m alone outside. I think laughing with others is one of the best feelings in the world and I’d like to think I’m somewhat funny. I can’t say with 100% certainty I am because if not, I’d rather not have to deal with the tomato throwing. But overall, I always love joking around and I’m pretty sure laughing helps you live longer. To go along with that, as I said previously, I really enjoy being outdoors and enjoying fresh air. Pittsburgh, where I’m from and live, doesn’t have the best weather and we see more than our fair share of cloudy days, but even then, I think there’s so much beauty around and in nature. Even a simple walk around the corner really helps me to ground myself and appreciate life.”
How has your experience of your own culture shaped your perspective and enabled you to be more connective?
“My first experience of black culture was growing up in my own home. Things like Sunday morning church services, Kirk Franklin, flat irons on the stove, 4C hair, jitneys all contributed to and developed my understanding of the black experience growing up and I truly value all of them. As I grew and my environments changed, I learned and experienced more of the various aspects of black culture. I have three sisters and two brothers, so as I grew into adulthood and many of today’s social issues became more apparent, such as colorism and other racial inequalities, I talked with them about these issues. I listen to my sisters talk about the struggles they face being black women in America, which are significantly worse than any of those I face. And these things are so important because this is real life and real people with real experiences that shouldn’t be overlooked. Overall, the black experience is so widespread and diverse. My experiences aren’t universal. There are people in other states, countries, and continents with completely different experiences. My personal experiences of culture have helped me to better understand and connect with other Black people around me and that’s something I appreciate!”
Natasha Jones
How do you plan to celebrate Black History Month?
“I plan to celebrate Black History Month by continuing to support Black artists, Black creators and Black people. I celebrate every day when I walk out the door and be the best me I can be. Black Girl Magic is real and I, like all other Black girls, am an example of that.”
What does black history and culture personally mean to you?
“Black history and black culture to me is my past, present and future. It’s important to know where you come from to know where you’re going.”
Can you share any fond and special memories that you have of growing up?
“My favorite childhood memory is when my mom would take my siblings and I for a drive. She would put on music and we’d drive to the park or the beach. Being in the car with my family listening to music…those memories warm my heart thinking of them now. There’s nothing like childhood and you’re never with your family the same way as when you were a kid. So, looking back when we were all together, happy and innocent is something I will cherish forever.”
Is there a coming-of-age moment that you can share with us?
“When I graduated college, I realized that I would be an “adult”. I had to take on real world responsibilities and it scared me. School was like a safe haven for me. When you’re in school you can’t fail as long as you try, commit to studying and show up. But thinking about what it would be like to just be out in the “real world” with no safety net terrified me. It wasn’t until I got over the initial fear that I realized that’s what’s so beautiful about life. You can’t plan for everything. There’s no right or wrong way to live. You just do it. You just live. And the world has so many unexpected beautiful moments waiting for you. So don’t be afraid of what’s to come, be excited for everything you haven’t experienced yet.”
When do you feel the most you?
“I feel the most me when I’m at home surrounded by my loved ones. When I’m not wearing any makeup and my hair is natural. I feel the most me when I am true to myself.”
How has your experience of your own culture shaped your perspective and enabled you to be more connective?
“I am half Black and half Mexican. Although I identify with both sides of my culture the world will always see me as Black first. So, my experiences have always been from the perspective of a Black woman. I was raised by my Mexican single mother and she exposed me to Black culture through music, books and media. Through these forms of media I have felt connected to my history. To my roots.”
DJ Ward
How do you plan to celebrate Black History Month?
“I celebrate by being myself and encouraging other Black people to do the same. Every day is black history month for me. I also celebrate by educating my daughter on black culture and history!”
What does black history and culture personally mean to you?
“Black history means everything to me. My ancestors and others that came before me have paved the way for me.”
Can you share any fond and special memories that you have of growing up?
“I remember always doing research papers and learning about more and more Black pioneers from our past.”
When do you feel the most you?
“I feel the most me always!”
How has your experience of your own culture shaped your perspective and enabled you to be more connective?
“It’s made me understand putting others first and not to judge someone based on the color of their skin.”
We appreciate you joining us for these spotlights and for making this Black History Month one of connection, inspiration, and hope. Make sure to follow along on social media to see how we’re working to positively impact our communities not only this month, but all year long.
