This Black Lives Matter Virtual Showroom Will Help You Become A Better Ally
It's been nearly two months since George Floyd was murdered by a police officer in Minnesota, sparking protests around the world. The Black Lives Matter movement attracted international attention, prompting many to address their prejudices and internal biases and to think seriously about how to become a better ally. Black squares were shared on Instagram and signs were made advocating for racial equality, but to what extent was this support simply performative?
Eight weeks on, the same issues remain, yet the noise has quietened. NAMESldn aims to ensure that the conversation continues beyond the superficial with a new digital platform, founded by Richard Thornn and Oksana Kukla. The pair have created a virtual showroom that seeks to educate those who want to become better allies, as well as celebrating Black creativity.
Viewers are able to explore a virtual gallery with clickable donation links, videos to watch, and written text by featured NAMEldn creators from different arenas, spanning fashion, literature, film and music. Names include Munroe Bergdorf, Akala, Rachel Cargle, Afua Hirsch, Clarice Gargard and Grace Wales Bonner.
"As the antithesis to white-washed black history, together we are highlighting a new line-up of talent that has not been given the recognition we believe they deserve," co-founder Richard Thornn tells us. "Digital platforms like ours have the potential to reach masses therefore spark important and fresh conversations, and deliver poignant messages globally."
NAMESldn launches with 12 unique voices, a roster that will change regularly to give new talents a platform and crucial recognition. The idea is to hold the fashion industry to account for its racism, and to provide an educational toolkit in which to learn more about racial inequality and how white communities can do better.
"We have finally seen a significant shift in the past weeks to the world finally focusing in on perpetuated racial injustice and police brutality that has been happening for years due to the tragic death of George Floyd," says Thornn. "The crux of change is education, and it will only live and last on allies’ willingness to listen, learn, and educate themselves. Unfortunately, trends pass, and we want to stand up against the possibility of Black Lives Matter becoming a fleeting trend in the industry.
"Fashion is permeated with racial inequality manifest in brand scandals and less access and opportunity for black creatives," he continues. "We believe it is only right for us to give our platform in support of the creatives."
To prove that Black Lives Matter is not a passing trend, the 4D showroom will be live indefinitely. "As viewers explore the space they will enjoy a unique and rich body of work that deserves global acclaim," says Thornn. "We hope that this initiative will spark change and inspire others within the industry to use their platforms to take action that has for so long been long overdue."
To browse the showroom visit namesdigital.co/black-lives-matter.
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