“Equity for black professionals is really a basis for everything I do. I’ve always strived to infiltrate spaces where we’re not seen and not often heard. I pride myself in having worked to build the confidence that allows me to express myself unapologetically no matter the space I’m in. While also realizing there is a system in place and we unfortunately have to strategically maneuver through it to rise above its prejudices.

Industry gatekeepers can make equity for black professionals a reality by first reflecting inwardly and unlearning a lot of things we’re inherently taught. There are European ideals ingrained in our society that we as a community have to first recognize in order to dismantle. Once those things are learned I think we have to really step out on courage and challenge ‘norms’  by speaking up in spaces, demanding a new standard, and also creating our own lanes where necessary.”

-Milton Dixon, Style Editor at Hypebeast and Hypebae