I AM LEGEND: BETHANN HARDISON

What becomes a legend most?

I've been saving the best photos for last and I'm not done yet. Some call her a revolutionary. Some call her a activist. I call her an American "Herstory" maker because she continues to make "Herstory" on a regular basis. Along with supermodel Iman, Bethann Hardison co-founded the Black Girls Coalition, an organization that has pushed for greater inclusion and visibility of Black models and models of color in the fashion industry, one activity that even in this day she's still fighting for.

Today, the former runway model is now the Editor-at-Large for VOGUE Italia's-VOGUE BLACK Website. Long gone is Bethann Management Company, Inc., which was once the international modeling and talent agency headed by Bethann Hardison. Never one to leave a challenge and create newer opportunities in the world at large especially in the fashion industry, Bethann is still a pivotal force in organizing Black models around such issues as equitable Black representation in fashion magazines, runways and catalogues. Bethann is an inspiration and a vision of women's empowerment.

I Salute You, Bethann Hardison for being a major influence to women all over the world by showing the world that we do exists and will no longer tolerate being rendered invisible. And may God continue to bless you with the vision and longevity to continue to empower others!

NOTE: Photos: Runway photos are from my own collections of fashion books
with the exception of those photos belonging to NYM and Getty Images. Share the love by linking back. Thank you.
Divalocity.


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Macy's Celebrates Fashion Icon: Eunice W. Johnson and The Ebony Fashion Fair

From January 27, 2011 through February 28, 2011 Macy’s will honor Eunice Walker Johnson for Black History month by showcasing select pieces from the legendary Ebony Fashion Fair collection in display windows at 10 select Macy’s locations.

Join Macy's Department Store in celebrating the legacy and contributions to fashion of Mrs. Eunice W. Johnson, co-founder of Johnson Publishing Company, Fashion Fair Cosmetics and the EBONY FASHION FAIR, the worlds largest traveling fashion show. At select Macy's, haute couture from Mrs. Johnson's extensive archives will be on display in special exhibitions. This is a not to miss event for all fashion lovers.

A Moment In Afro Her-story: Media Mogul Oprah Winfrey

"Media Mogul Oprah Winfrey"

First of all, what can I say about this woman that the world doesn't already know? One of the most iconic and influential women on the planet, media mogul, philanthropist and icon- Oprah Winfrey! I don't care what her haters call her because she is no "Mammy" and I think her haters need to redefine what that word means when they attempt to denigrate her and our women ancestors, even though bonded by the shackles of slavery built this nation and the nations throughout the world!

Those same "Mammy's" built this great nation as we know of today! Through their resilience and perseverance is what brought our people through the misery and dehumanization of Slavery from here to South and Central America and to the Caribbean, the strength of the African woman is what has allowed us to survive and thrive in societies which attempted to deny us our humanity. On her back- even to this very day she carries our futures which is still the bridge to our prosperity as a people.

Oprah raised the bar and is still the torch bearer of how we can define success for ourselves. She taught us to explore the world and make connections with those who can also inspire and enlighten our reach. Oprah Winfrey is now the owner of her very OWN Network- I love those initials and it's something we all should aspire to- to own everything about ourselves- our images- our identities and our own businesses.

When you let your differences limit your possibilities, you will also live a life based on your own limitations and those of what others have told you. I believe that support is life's greatest strength. That's why I proudly support those who give so much of themselves to make a difference in the lives of others and Oprah Winfrey is such an individual.