Our community of Black gay and queer men love the Bloomingdale’s collaboration because it makes them feel seen, heard, and respected. In support of Harter’s gesture, Wilbekin added: “Native Son is so excited to partner with Bloomingdale’s on our limited edition PRIDE T-Shirts for the third year. Speaking on the importance of the partnership, Bloomingdale’s Vice President of Integrated Marketing and Fashion Direction, Kevin Harter, says: “Bloomingdale’s is proud to partner with Native Son to support the organization’s mission of championing the Black gay and queer community, and are thrilled to celebrate this inspiring and empowering collection with a special event at the 59th Street flagship in honor of Pride Month.” With its mission statement and organizational goals aligning with Bloomingdale’s, a capsule collection was born to help solidify inclusivity.Īnd expanding on its joint vision for diversity, the collection campaign features several Black entrepreneurs that own queer-affirming entertainment venues in New York, including Bryan Clarke and Troy Berry (owners of 4 West Lounge in Harlem), Richard and Charles Solomon (owners of Lambda Lounge in Harlem), and Leon Curry (Co-Owner of Next Harlem), each photographed by Ricky Day. Wilbekin’s lens of Black-and-queer identity and affirmation has resonated with local and national communities and led him to create the Native Son foundation as a movement for Black gay men to see themselves in a more positive light. The collection – co-designed by Kid Dangerous – encompasses a limited-edition range of slogan tees that feature phrases such as “ Black Boy Joy,” “People Be Gay,” and “Queer.” Colorways include black tees and white tees, with phrases appearing in multi-colored graphic decals.