From the moment the first models appeared, it was clear that athleisure brand Actively Black’s New York Fashion Week show wasn’t just about clothes.
What unfolded at the Sept. 12 event was a cultural celebration of Black history, culture, style, and people. It was, as founder Lanny Smith declared, “not a fashion show.”
Instead, the Actively Black event showcased a mix of civil rights icons, swag surfin, HBCU love, and an overall celebration of Blackness in America.
And in such a tough political and social moment — when free speech and democracy are under attack, when HBCUs are being threatened, and the National Guard is deployed in our cities — Boston-based therapist Celeste Viciere says this kind of joyful, culturally affirming statement is exactly what Black America needs.
“In 2025, the way things are going, there’s so much discourse,” Viciere explains. “And I think that moment is a reminder of who we are.”
People are still commenting online about the strong emotions the show stirred, with thousands reposting and commenting on what it meant to see our history and culture centered so unapologetically.
Watch the Word In Black video to see why the event made us smile and cry while reminding us that we ain’t neva scared.