It’s never too late in the day to say Happy Birthday to a love one, especially if it’s your one and only child. This is a memorable moment at the NAACP Awards on the evening of one of Kadeem’s two times win for Best Actor in a Comedy series of “A Different World” Years later winning for Best Actor in LifeTimes series ‘The Fantasia Story”…3 times is a winning charm. Meanwhile that was us entering before that 2nd NAACP win. I tell you this story or details because I simply love this photograph of us. Me always interacting and Kadeem always the “cool solider”. Feliz Cumpleaños mi hijo 🎂🎁 con mucho amor. @kadeemhardison #naacp #adw #lifetime #fantasia
“I don’t know who I think I am, but I do be trying.” @bethannhardison I’ve had the privilege of photographing Bethann Hardison in a @fanmdjanm headwrap. I think I should retire now? Photos from a day I will never forget. It feels good to meet an icon who also happens a to be a “girls’ girl”. Thank you again Bethann for everything. I’m excited to read your book. To my friends and anyone who comes across these images, if you haven’t watched “Invisible Beauty”, please do.
Mr Daniel Day aka Dapper Dan has been awarded with this years CFDA’s Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award. Perhaps first thought after hearing this, one might question “why or how”? I heard some rumblings of discomfort, a few apparel designers might not been happy with that decision to recognize DD with this award. But on second thought, why not? This gentleman, long ago, effected a culture and added some bling where there was none. Being a designer comes with training and education. Today most designers can’t drape nor cut a pattern. My exposed school of training was the need to know all the technical aspects of design. You needed to know more than just an idea and have an assistant who knew how to sketch. But apparel fashion life has changed. Our NYC garment center is barely memorable, many brands are doing “streetwear” which still has me perplexed. Manufacturing and retail, are finding its place, as its respect for so many emerging design brands. Luxury, better goods, moderate to sustainability, all are reaching to succeed. All to say it’s a different day then yesterday. Watching all of the young brands getting opportunities recently. It’s exciting for many that dared to dream and now finally seeing light. There has been a shift to the benefit of others. Those who were under served or under recognized are now having their day. You can’t be mad at that. And seeing what’s being viewed, recognition is being rewarded. This is good. The Designers Hub that I founded in 2018, many of them are having a great moment that was not happening prior to 2020. The Hub consists of apparel and accessory designers of color. The journey of Dapper Dan has effected culture and his story alone is worth rewarding. Many things these days are not what we knew before. We must allow others to do what they do best and accept that truth to have value. I am accepting that in others as well. Live and let live. Be happy for what another has achieved. As it’s no real skin off your nose, otherwise it’s pure jealousy. Whats meant shall be. I am excited that the CFDA decided to recognize Dapper Dan (and so is Stephen Burrows) Congratulations to all !!! @dapperdanharlem @cfda
Looking back to move forward… Because this year and next I will be doing just that as I develop my documentary and author my memoir of sort. This is a big feat to accomplish but in every instance I have a great supportive team of talented others who surround me. It’s time… I know…if you never knew, I had 21 years of dread lock growth for those who didn’t know me then. This is a memorable image of me shot by Torkil Gudnason for an Italian magazine edited by former model Donna Jordan. Later we got permission to use this image for an Interview Magazine feature under the then EID Ingrid Sischy. My personal story is large in a simple way but woven through many moments and people. I look back and think, how many, many wonderful moments for a latch key kid from Bedford Stuyvesant. Now that I have purpose to look back and recall, I too am amazed at the life I have lived and enjoyed. Remembering all who loved me and enjoyed who I was, encouraging me to accept, believe, and step further. And I did. Sometimes I had to be encourage to step into the unknown. And it was never a mistake, I gained every time. There are many stories to share. I too cannot believe who or what, when I start to open my memory lane. No doubt its a story to share as so many of you have begged me to do, to compose all that others could read and know. Perhaps this will allow me do more then one, perhaps this will take me on further to fulfill something more. I am grateful that at this age I have still the faculties and physical strength to keep this movement in motion. Grateful for so many believing and needing me to give as I continue to receive. I will keep this precious audience connected as I embark on this story telling journey. I spent his birthday evening with my son Kadeem for what we deem as “our birth day” on Saturday and it was a great gift as I am usually at distance. I walked away inspired… Now I am ready to embrace what for long I feared I personally couldn’t do. Once you decide to get out of your own way…it’s the beginning of the win. @torkilgudnasonstudio @kadeemhardison
These two magnificent men… who were jailed the same day, And died the same day. They have given great meaning to… “He’s my ride or die” May they rest in glorious peace. 🙏🏾🙏🏾
Happy Birthday o Feliz Cumpleaños!!! Trying to catch up and get in front of all the well wishes coming to me. Let me clarify… I celebrate my birthday September 30 but learned at the age of 12 it was technically the 29th. Mother said 3 mins after 12 midnight , father proved it was 3 mins before 12 midnight. No matter, I continued to celebrate September 30th supporting my mother to the end. I share this Essence cover in memory of the support of many who believed in my image at that time. As I was not a print girl or top model per se. I was modeling and had rose to the top of those important runway girls, I who so happen to have a full time job, as the showroom model and then design assistant to Stephen Burrows, that was the 70’s. But the editor Marcia Gillespie, of Essence was determined to have that dark skin girl, name Bethann on the cover. She shot it 3 different times until they were satisfied with it. Determined was she. I share it now because yesterday September 29th…my publisher One World/Roc.Lit, a Random House imprint announced our book deal. It’s stories like this I will remember to share and then some. I am proud of my time on earth with all and especially this moment now as I live and breathe strongly and continue to achieve. An example of what I want you all to see and know, “it ain’t over til it’s over”. Live consciously. And be kind to all others as you travel your life journey. Compassion is key. Doing things to be recognized is one way to get attention. But its not my way. Putting in earnest seeds in the ground of a global society, would be me. Perhaps that’s what’s replenishing me, at this age, at this stage. The book that all of you has been hankering for I will deliver in Spring 2022 to the publisher…In sha Allah. It’s a good time. Recently we lost a few very good souls, from Richard Buckley to Sarah Dash to George Malkemus to Melvin Van Peebles. Surely there are more, but those were mine in the last week. Reminds me of my blessings of strength and clarity, to not take for granted. I owe you my story to add to your better selves and grateful that I am still healthy to share. The clock is ticking. Always keep that in mind.
The September 2020 issue of @BritishVogue features a special portfolio starring 41 inspirational activists dedicated to making a change. Read the full story by @AfuaHirsch in the new issue, on newsstands Friday 7 August. My photograph is by Romney Mueller-Westernhagen @lautreclens, with additional photography by @misanharriman @phillipdanielducasse @kingtexas @chriseanrose @eddieh__ @kidnoble @flongala @ryanpfluger and Andi Weiland Cover: @mspackyetti #campaignzero #balancediversity #guccichangemakers Honored to be recognized every time for making a difference. The dedication of this September 2020 issue is magnificent and won’t be the last to acknowledge the disruptors of today. If you don’t know them, take time to learn of at least a few. Those who challenge society and social norms, are making a difference. Good leadership @edward_enninful
The September 2020 issue of @BritishVogue features a special portfolio starring 41 inspirational activists dedicated to making a change. Read the full story by @AfuaHirsch in the new issue, on newsstands Friday 7 August. My photograph is by Romney Mueller-Westernhagen @lautreclens, with additional photography by @misanharriman @phillipdanielducasse @kingtexas @chriseanrose @eddieh__ @kidnoble @flongala @ryanpfluger and Andi Weiland Cover: @mspackyetti #campaignzero #balancediversity #guccichangemakers Honored to be recognized every time for making a difference. The dedication of this September 2020 issue is magnificent and won’t be the last to acknowledge the disruptors of today. If you don’t know them, take time to learn of at least a few. Those who challenge society and social norms, are making a difference. Good leadership @edward_enninful
The September 2020 issue of @BritishVogue features a special portfolio starring 41 inspirational activists dedicated to making a change. Read the full story by @AfuaHirsch in the new issue, on newsstands Friday 7 August. My photograph is by Romney Mueller-Westernhagen @lautreclens, with additional photography by @misanharriman @phillipdanielducasse @kingtexas @chriseanrose @eddieh__ @kidnoble @flongala @ryanpfluger and Andi Weiland Cover: @mspackyetti #campaignzero #balancediversity #guccichangemakers Honored to be recognized every time for making a difference. The dedication of this September 2020 issue is magnificent and won’t be the last to acknowledge the disruptors of today. If you don’t know them, take time to learn of at least a few. Those who challenge society and social norms, are making a difference. Good leadership @edward_enninful
The September 2020 issue of @BritishVogue features a special portfolio starring 41 inspirational activists dedicated to making a change. Read the full story by @AfuaHirsch in the new issue, on newsstands Friday 7 August. My photograph is by Romney Mueller-Westernhagen @lautreclens, with additional photography by @misanharriman @phillipdanielducasse @kingtexas @chriseanrose @eddieh__ @kidnoble @flongala @ryanpfluger and Andi Weiland Cover: @mspackyetti #campaignzero #balancediversity #guccichangemakers Honored to be recognized every time for making a difference. The dedication of this September 2020 issue is magnificent and won’t be the last to acknowledge the disruptors of today. If you don’t know them, take time to learn of at least a few. Those who challenge society and social norms, are making a difference. Good leadership @edward_enninful
The September 2020 issue of @BritishVogue features a special portfolio starring 41 inspirational activists dedicated to making a change. Read the full story by @AfuaHirsch in the new issue, on newsstands Friday 7 August. My photograph is by Romney Mueller-Westernhagen @lautreclens, with additional photography by @misanharriman @phillipdanielducasse @kingtexas @chriseanrose @eddieh__ @kidnoble @flongala @ryanpfluger and Andi Weiland Cover: @mspackyetti #campaignzero #balancediversity #guccichangemakers Honored to be recognized every time for making a difference. The dedication of this September 2020 issue is magnificent and won’t be the last to acknowledge the disruptors of today. If you don’t know them, take time to learn of at least a few. Those who challenge society and social norms, are making a difference. Good leadership @edward_enninful
October 11th is International Day of the Girl…a favorite day for me to always remember the girl in me. This girl is so busy at this time of life that I missed my day by 20 mins. But be sure I am still celebrating my day of birth, the 29th/30th of September, depends on who you ask or read. I will complete my celebration on Oct 16th. Going to see Styles in concert and got my Covid booster today on the “Girl Day” to help protect the fortress as I mask up for the occasion. The girl in me lives continuously as years go by. I have this year to delivery two long over due projects. And watch others that I help guide, spread their wings and fly. It’s inspiring. As I move along and continue to conquer the life given I share this lovely birthday fan art by @shiringodhrawala Color pencils on Limited Edition A4 Handmade Paper Thank you. #Gucci Lookbook campaign SS2020
Oh what days these are… I know what’s there to do and what’s expected of me by me, yet getting to the goal you have set is perhaps beyond your physical capabilities at this stage. One is to organize the lower level (known to most as the basement of the house). Got only a few days to achieve before returning to another environment where there are things waiting to do as well. Where ever you go there you are..that expression comes in to play. This is the first time I have taken on a lot to achieve, want and need to get it done and want to continue to space out at the same time. Seeing life as it is and not as you want it to be is the simple personal challenge. I am a grateful soul and have been since being a child. Quite amazed when I achieve what I set out to do. Youth seems to allow that with more ease. Nothing to compare and energy to burn. Now…when I express to others, my streak of laziness or not being ambitious, it’s a joke to the listeners. But I know how I roll and have to encourage myself to get where I am going. Otherwise procrastination would not be my friend. I never seem to let me down but I do get close to the edge. I love the comfort of no commitments and nothing to do. So when it time to make it happen thank goodness I still have some gas in the tank. But the conflict is real. In closing…My spirit lingers close to the soul of Josephine Baker who I knew, met in 1970 in Stockholm, stayed close to her boyfriend Robert for awhile after she passed on. Wonderful news.. France is moving her remains from MonteCarlo to the Pantheon in Paris where French heroes are buried. All to say “you can’t keep a good woman down”. I know she was famous but I adored her, as she did me. Life truly provides. Best I get it done so there is something to be remembered. #josephinebaker #lifeafterdeath #lifewhileliving #itsallgood
With a big smile on my face… “challenge accepted”. I thank you @kimblackwellpmm @irisknowsbest for choosing me. Appreciate your support and recognition. But right back at you. We are of the same tribe, as women often are. Grateful to be respected, as we continue to be there for one another. I send you ❤️. #womensupportingwomen
Eid Mubarak… As we end the Holy month of Ramadan during this Covid-19 pandemic…and this Memorial Day weekend…much is to be remembered and recognized. The end of Ramadan is normally joyous and a moment of celebration. But not this time. As I end the holy fasting, I long to speak with my father to discuss the politics of this current state. My father was a brilliant personality, a very cool and handsome man, who so happen to also be a religious leader, an Imam. He gave counsel and mentor to Malcolm X at a time Malcolm was faced with conflict. What would they both say now? I have so many memories of my life with my father, his great guidance of leadership he gave to others. I realize the importance of these last 30 days, the good you give to others. But also yourself. I have spoken truths to love ones, I have avoided nonsense. I am currently living in the woods so it has its effects. And now it’s time to remember those who are no longer with us. Specifically today as the New York Sunday Times prints the names of 100,000 who lost their lives to the Corona virus. We are still in that zone because people are still dying. I pray deeply for those families who lost love ones. I too lost someone, so dear to me, I was here, she was there, alone. Vera Varner, in a way, she let me know she had left this earth. I called to check in, just to check in, no knowledge she was sick, nor was she weak. Just another woman living alone, in Bklyn, of strength and maturity. She had died one week before I made the call. Entered the hospital 4/28 died 5/4…No one holds your hand during this pandemic while you leave this earth. No choice, that’s the way it is, to prevent the virus from spreading. I wish all our great leaders were alive to witness and weight in on this. If you have lived long enough, it’s very hard to watch, not the pandemic, but the response. The current political administration is different then it has ever been and who and how to manage, has not been a winning tale. So I not only pray in memory of those who were taken away, but for those who should do the right thing. In memory of ALL who gave and lost their lives. 5/2020
Model is Muse The model today should be as inspiring as the model of yesterday. As a viewer you recognize her every time and get rewarded every time you see her doing the job she was put there to do. Because a model is photographed doesn’t make them a great one. That comes with time, if they have it even sooner. There were many great editorial models and runway models that I have witness…in this case I will speak of the editorial model. Helen Williams, Naomi Sims, Iman, Bonnie Berman, Linda Evangelista, Kristen McMenamy, Naomi Campbell, etc, a few more I am leaving out due to space. But in this modern model moment, along came Binx Walton. This is a muse. It’s understanding why you are there and what do you bring besides standing in front of the lens. From the moment I met Binx…I was a fan and over these years watching her find her model purpose has been my joy. Surely the photographer becomes smitten. I also have my eye on Anok Yai, so far so good. Her Steven Meisel editorial…was old school “model is muse”, quite brilliant. All to say, today there are many models perhaps too many, but teaching them their purpose and bringing what they got is rare to see. The model must have it because the teachers are rare and if, barely anytime to share that knowledge. If only the talent remained the objective and not just the look. I long for greatness in a model in front of the camera or on the runway to realize their purpose. No one speaks of it any more..an art that could become lost if a demand is not put in place. To be sure that the muse remains and is always sought after. Deep down it’s a sport. Compete to win..in everything we do. Be an inspiration. That is my pray. @binxwalton @anokyai @kristen_mcmenamy @naomi @lindaevangelista @the_real_iman #stevenmeisel #helenwilliams #naomisims #bonnieberman
As this day ends…earlier today we celebrated and buried the body of George Floyd. There is not a lot to say, but now reflection and future thoughts for the movement. Whats important is to recognize the purpose of life. The effect one life or incident can spark at the right time. The support from others and continued recognition globally has allowed me to witness for the first time who has stepped along side in such numbers who are not only black. The Civil Rights movement had that vibe, but this is far greater. There is an understanding finally, more then ever before. So I clench a fist but recognizing the love that has been shown to help effect this change. Your life was taken Mr Floyd, but not in vain. Breathe now…rest in peace. 🖤 #6/9/20
Felicidades to Kamala Harris who is officially the VP nominee for the USA. Every little girl no matter the color of her skin should know this too is their moment. All of us “girls” are excited to see political progress for women during this significant week of the right for women to vote. But it wasn’t for all women. The advocacy of women of color like Fannie Lou Hamer and Denise Nash help lead the biggest voting victory for all, the Voting Rights Act of 1965. But voting suppression tactics, still exist. But still we celebrate as we should, because today belongs to Kamala Harris, and every single American. History has been made and we remain in respect and memory of those earlier advocates as we build on their legacies. So let us dance for joy, continue to wear your mask, and get all besides yourself to VOTE. @norah_yarah_rosa #byanymeansnecessary #thetimeisnow #voteforprogress #changethecourse #thereisnovaccineforracism
Simple living…is what life has become. Peaceful living is my sanctuary. It surrounds the activity of my daily life which keeps me within. I feel comfort in my surroundings it supports my spirit and aids me naturally. The mountains I have learned gives me something different. This is the most time I have spent here consistently. The pandemic put us in hiding, made us stay home and though I resent this virus and it’s destruction, grateful that I have been given an opportunity to re-access everything, as we all have. Balancing the social justice movement, and all it needs to conquer remains in the air. And all I need to achieve is also in the air. I am responsible for the result of both. We are all affected by what is in the air and need to recognize the responsibilities to be effective. So much has happened in nearly five months and we need to be clearer than ever. There is even a greater goal that’s in the air, that is in November. With all the energies, distractions, and ambitions, we must remember to “keep our eye on the prize”, no matter what… Conscious living is the objective. Peaceful journey Mr. Lewis 🖤
Simple living…is what life has become. Peaceful living is my sanctuary. It surrounds the activity of my daily life which keeps me within. I feel comfort in my surroundings it supports my spirit and aids me naturally. The mountains I have learned gives me something different. This is the most time I have spent here consistently. The pandemic put us in hiding, made us stay home and though I resent this virus and it’s destruction, grateful that I have been given an opportunity to re-access everything, as we all have. Balancing the social justice movement, and all it needs to conquer remains in the air. And all I need to achieve is also in the air. I am responsible for the result of both. We are all affected by what is in the air and need to recognize the responsibilities to be effective. So much has happened in nearly five months and we need to be clearer than ever. There is even a greater goal that’s in the air, that is in November. With all the energies, distractions, and ambitions, we must remember to “keep our eye on the prize”, no matter what… Conscious living is the objective. Peaceful journey Mr. Lewis 🖤
WORDS ARE NOT ENOUGH🙅🏾♂️
Ella Jones …first Black, first woman Mayor of Ferguson. VOTE! It makes a difference. Don’t think for a moment it doesn’t. Proud of the vote and proud of the new Mayor. We all have our job to do. One being to VOTE each and every time. #ellajones
Today is the day after democratic Presidential nominee Joe Biden selected Kamala Harris, a woman of color to be his running mate. Right On Joe ! And I agree for many reasons. This week Louise Irving died at the age of 96, a white woman, republican, the mother of David Irving. This woman and her democratic white husband, gave me the money to start my model business on N Moore St. Their son David told them about me and all they asked after hearing was to meet me. So to Pennsylvania I went for the day. I will always remember that day, that husband and wife relationship, our talks of politics, the property, and what I learned. That meeting told them I was the one to bet on. I was so impressed with them, and me with me, when David told me they agreed to fund Bethann Management. Their belief helped me to believe further. I couldn’t let this week go by and not acknowledge Ms Irving, who died naturally with solid strength, went for a walk, sat at her desk to write, and slumped over. Quietly she left… but she was hell on wheels while she lived. But a good soul. She believed in me and I could not let what she saw not soar, if nothing more, to at least fly. Joe is giving Kamala wings. I was given an opportunity by Ms.Irving to build a foundation, a stage to dance on…I wasn’t even sure then, but they saw and heard this young woman from Brooklyn was destined if the chance was given. They never lean on me for the return of funds, (but all was returned) everything fell into place, the spirits aligned and I knew I needed to made a difference. Change how it was been being done. Encourage others and represent the best. I didn’t know who I was or what I was capable of but the opportunity allowed me see and do. Forever grateful to those who add fuel to our fire. It was my time to do and it’s still my time to do. In my realm I am seeking “excellence” with a desire to aid the underserved and educate those that surround me. Felicidades to Kamala Harris and the Biden team for giving fuel to a woman and of color to help be the change we seek now. #theirvings 🖤 #bethannmanagement #blackgirlscoalition #balancediversity #diversitycoalition
I AM NO PROMOTER … But a serious Alice Smith fan…and more… Taking advantage of a captive audience, due to #stayhome as we beat the virus. Alice is doing a series of concerts, so check the link below and please join her. Starts 5/29/20 #supportingartists. http://vip.alicesmith.com #covideocrownseries
