On April 20th, the police officer who took the life of George Floyd was found guilty by a US jury on three charges: second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and manslaughter. The sentencing of Derek Chauvin will occur in eight weeks’ time and he will be held without bail until then.

Whilst we hope that the verdict of this trial offers at least some sort of relief to the family and friends of George Floyd, this verdict is not a victory – a victory could only be one without the death of George Floyd.

In truth, the sentencing of a cop for murdering an African American man making international news only highlights just how uncommon it is that the perpetrators of racially motivated heinous hate crimes and murders are so rarely brought to justice. 

Law enforcement, which is supposed to offer a sense of safety and security to all of us, has frequently been capable of and easily allowed to get away with horrific incidents of brutality, only to be justified by the excuse of criminal behaviour on the victim’s part. Unfortunately, it comes as no shock that the deaths and attacks carried out by ‘law enforcers’ are directed at plenty of innocent civilians, but a question we should really be turning our focus to is; why is any physical violence needed in the case of a police investigation/arrest. When the murderer responsible for the six fatal shootings of Asian women in Atlanta last month was arrested without gunfire or attack, and excused by the Police Captain of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s department as having had ‘a bad day’, it’s no longer (and hasn’t been for some time) up for debate that the handling of arrests or even simple check-ins require guns or use of excessive force. 

Whilst some celebrated the verdict of yesterday’s trial and hoped for this to be the beginning of a vast improvement in policing laws, in another state, Ma’Khia Bryant, a sixteen-year-old black girl was shot dead by police and became yet another victim of a heinous police brutality crime. 

At age sixteen, Ma’Khia called the police in fear after an attempted stabbing had been made. Instead of the safety she sought in phoning the police, the officers which attended the scene callously took her life. 

There is no question that the death of George Floyd caused global outrage and sparked protests and demonstrations worldwide, bringing a huge amount of attention to the Black Lives Matter movement, but George Floyd is and was not a martyr; he did not sacrifice his life, he didn’t die for a cause, he was unlawfully murdered and stripped of his life. He didn’t need or have to die; it was not a choice. 

Whilst some may celebrate the beginning of change following the verdict of yesterday’s trial, if anything, this so clearly highlights how far we have yet to go. In the UK, more of the corruption at play in our government has been exposed following the recent handling of the recent Race Report which so casually rewrote history, dismissed white supremacy, and denied that Britain had an issue with racism. Under scrutiny from the United Nations who rejected the report, they shared;

‘It is stunning to read a report on race and ethnicity that repackages racist tropes and stereotypes into fact, twisting data and misapplying statistics and studies into conclusory findings and ad hominem attacks on people of African descent.’

An in-depth look into the dishonest report that No. 10 produced can be viewed here.

With inherently racist countries built on the backs of slavery, colonisation, and colonialism declaring their innocence in matters of racism and racially fuelled murders taking place in one state whist the sentencing of a racist cop takes place in another, it is obvious that this is hardly even the beginning of an effort to demand systemic reprioritisation and make a huge individual and internal revolutionary change in order to achieve justice for all.

It is simply not enough to demand accountability; justice and equity for victims of this systemic racism are sorely needed.

‘Black LIFE Matters. As in Black health, Black wealth, Black success, Black joy, Black breath, Black love, Black anger, Black laughter, Black creativity, Black abundance, Black peace, Black ease, Black well-being, Black self-expression, Black community, Black culture, Black safety, Black protection, Black leadership, Black history, Black self-determination, Black self-definition, Black individuality, Black truth-telling, Black humanity, Black existence.’

 – Layla F. Saad

Books/Resources to help: 

Me and White Supremacy: How to Recognise Your Privilege, Combat Racism, and Change the World – by Layla Saad

Do Better (Spiritual Activism for Fighting and Healing from White Supremacy – by Rachel Ricketts

Spiritual Activism Webinars: https://www.rachelricketts.com/online-courses

Words By Megan Selway

The post The Trial of Derek Chauvin – This is Only the Beginning of Justice. appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Her signature bold graphic looks partnered with perfectly luminous skin usually catch our eye as we scroll through Instagram. Recently, however, she has used her huge platform to raise awareness and demand change for the ‘black lives matter’ movement. Voir got to know the girl behind the Instagram.

1). Who inspired you growing up?

My biggest inspirations stem from movies and their creative ways of introducing and establishing characters. I was always in awe with the way scenes were lit and the makeup and fashion aspects.

2). How did you get into makeup?

I got into it by accident. I was not the type of person that would wear bold looks on a daily basis, but I needed a creative outlet and found it in art and makeup. Once I realised how much fun I had creating it, I knew I had to work on realising ideas and showing them through my photography.

3). What is your biggest source of inspiration for your makeup looks?

It can be anything. A mood, a colour, even a song or an object. Of course, I also find inspiration and motivation in the work of others, especially my talented friends on Instagram! Although it’s important to separate recreation and inspiration, which is why I try to find looks in other forms of art, instead of makeup.

Images taken from @kali.ledger Instagram

4). How would you describe your style?

I think, bold, glowy with a graphic liner describes me best!

5). What is in your everyday makeup bag?

A lot of liquid blush and highlighter. My faves are from Iconic London. As well as the one and only perfect match foundation, the Anastasia Beverly Hills Luminous Foundation.

6). What is your go-to look?

A glowy cheek and a very simple foxy eye that I do with my brow pencil! I usually use my nude lipstick (Kabcosmetics in ‘Lace’) on my lips and cheeks, if I am on the go.

7). You can only use three items of makeup for the rest of your life, what are they?

I think I would never stop using my liquid highlighter by Iconic London, my Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter Primer and my soap brow, done with regular hand soap and water.

8). Which is your favourite look you have created?

Anything that was not in my comfort zone. For example, my first videos! I had a hard time feeling confident and relaxed in front of the camera, and that has gotten so much better over the last months.

9). How do you achieve such flawless, glowing skin?

It’s all in the skincare and way you apply your products! Most importantly is your skincare. You need to find the right products for your skin and more sure to use them properly. The next step is the application of products. Do not layer products on top of each other that don’t need to be layered. Best example: Powder, Foundation, then Concealer all underneath your Highlighter? That is a no go for me. Try a routine where you apply your eye makeup your lip makeup, your brows then your primer, contour, blush, bronzer and highlight and THEN go in and start to spot conceal and apply a very small bit of foundation. You will notice that your results are super lightweight, and you do not need to apply every product on your whole face. By always applying product to the back of your hand first, you will a lot more control and it’s not going to cake or crease on you.

10). Have you ever faced any struggles/ setbacks?

Yes, but they mostly came from myself. I suffer from anxiety, and depression and I can get very hard on myself when I am unproductive.

11). How did you overcome them?

I have learned to take breaks, have a work schedule and also take the weekends off sometimes, making space for my mental health, well-being and friends.

12). Do you have any advice for young women trying to get into the makeup industry?

Do not underestimate your worth, talent and time. Success does not come overnight, I have worked nearly 2 years on Instagram, and I learned about photography, retouching, and videography 3 years prior. That is everything I have done to get to where I am right now. I have done over 230 Looks with almost 690 Images and 429 Instagram posts. This is hard work and dedication and cannot be achieved in a short time. With that said don’t get discouraged when you don’t see progress immediately. Always strive to work hard and do your best, change your looks, techniques, and never give up on yourself. Do what makes you feel good, that is all that matters.

Images taken from @kali.ledger Instagram

On your social media, you have been a part of creating a voice around the black lives matter movement to your large following. Is there anything you want to say to our readers regarding the movement, from an activist perspective, a business perspective or a personal perspective to continue to raise awareness and create change?

13). Have you experienced discrimination in the beauty industry?

From a business perspective, I can tell you that a lot of brands are treating this subject as a trend and a PR Stunt. If they have not shared their business insides as well as their actual plans to change their way of working, they are not serious about it. Please look at the challenge and demand your favourite brands to be more transparent.

Though we are still a long way off, we’ve recently seen more focus on trying to achieve diversity within the beauty industry.

14). What are your thoughts on the representation of black people within the beauty industry, and whether the beauty industry is truly trying to change this?

I have, in almost all campaigns that I have been a part of, been ‘the darkest option/person’. I have noticed a lack of black and PAID creators in the industry and that is solely because brands are not catering to these creators. I have also noticed that I was not following a lot of black creators because they were never recommended to me and my feed.

Images taken from @kali.ledger Instagram

Only during the last shout out for black creators has there been a light on them. I think it’s so sad to see brands still not seeing their worth, but I am hopeful that things will change. Companies are solely based on their profit and demand. Let us demand more inclusivity and diversity and only spend our money on brands that listen!

Words by Ella Winfield

Graphics by Katie Janes

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The post Meet Kali Ledger: Makeup Artist & Unapologetic ‘Black Lives Matter’ Activist appeared first on Voir Fashion.

This year marked one of the biggest civil rights movements throughout the world. Following the death of George Floyd and Black Lives Matter protests, we realised that we still have a long way to go. One of the best ways to fight racism is by informing ourselves more, consuming the right media and content in order to better understand history, and there’s no better time to do so than now. October is Black History Month, a time to celebrate black culture and the contribution of black people, not only in the UK, but the world.

It’s time to learn and push the discussion further. It’s time to find out about all of the influential black people that have shaped the culture that we so love and consume. If you’re unaware of where to start here’s a selection of our favourite media to raise awareness and help in educating ourselves more.

1. Dear White People

The satirical Netflix series revolves around a group of black students and their daily struggles in a modern and “post-racist” American society. By following their lives in a predominantly white Ivy-League College they help us reflect on topics such as cultural appropriation, social injustice, sexism, colourism, and many more issues that need our immediate attention. It’s a fun and educational series worth a binge-watching session.

2. The Shadow King

A captivating book that immerses you in the story of the second Italo-Ethiopian war of 1935. The story written by Maaza Mengiste, which was also included in the 2020 Booker Prize Shortlist, tells us everything about the role of women in this war and their fight against racism and sexism. It’s not your usual book about women’s path to independence, it’s an emotional story about a woman’s journey through the battlefield, her photographic descriptions of the scenery, and an alternative perspective on a crucial moment of African history. It’s time for the new generations to see these events from a new set of eyes and this book helps you do just so.

3. Black Sheep

A heartbreaking documentary following the death of Damilola Taylor in November of 2000 and how it marked the life of Cornelius Walker. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s one of those documentaries that needs to be seen and shared. It follows the life of Cornelius in a predominantly racist neighborhood and the coping mechanism that led him to self-destructive behaviour and being integrated into a culture of violence and hatred. It’ll help you understand that events like this happen recurrently and even if we may just see them in the news they can change someone’s life forever.

4. Black History Month Photo-Open

An online photography exhibition celebrating black culture and historical moments. With more than 100 images submitted by 24 emerging artists, this online exhibition shows us everything from empowered black women at work, traditional carnivals, musicians in the streets, and struggling men affected by the pandemic. It’s raw and that’s exactly what we love about it. As you know, an image can be as powerful as any other media so take your time, have a look, and share this piece of history with us.

5. The Survival Guide

Jendella Benson discusses everything relating to the life of black women in our current society. In this podcast’s informative yet entertaining podcasts she interviews strong independent women such as Tobi Asare, founder of MyBumpPay, and takes us on their journey and daily lives. If you want to better understand the perspective of black women who challenge the outdated aspects of our so-called ‘modern’ society this is the right podcast, you’ll hear everything from dating advice to salary inequalities.

6. ESSENCE Magazine

A lifestyle magazine for African-American women. You might ask why so niche? Well, these are the kind of products that we need, a specific market that targets the needs of black women around the world, Essence does just that. The magazine talks about fashion, finance, and much more with an intimate one-to-one tone that catches your attention and captures your heart. It acts as a mirror for the wants and needs of African-American women and immerses anyone interested in being informed into their culture and their way of experiencing the world and the current issues affecting it. With a beautiful design, high-quality journalism and compelling stories this magazine deserves every bit of your attention.

7. The Distracted Journey: Poems From A Slave

A digital event celebrating black culture through poetry and conversations with Donovan Christopher, an artist of all forms. Thursday 15 October from 7 pm to 8 pm on Kirklees Libraries social media accounts you will be able to participate and listen to poems and tales about black history and lives through the eyes of the poet. No booking or confirmation is required, just a login, so why not dedicate an hour and take part?

8. By Any Means – Jorja Smith

Jorja Smith delves into her experience with social injustice and the Black Lives Matter movement through the lyrics and melodies of this song. It’s a heartbreaking yet powerful song that was even used as Roc Nation’s lead single for their Reprise project in their duty to support organisations fighting social injustice and division. As the singer explained herself, it’s more than another song or social media post, it’s a statement and it needs to reach everyone. So go have a listen and take in a new message.

9. The Idea of America

Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones analysis and dismantles America’s history from 1619 onwards in this powerful essay. She points out how slavery cannot be forgotten when discussing democracy, and shows us all of the efforts made by the black community to change the false conceptions we’ve had of history and the distorted definitions that we have of the American model of “democracy”. If you want to understand the underside of capitalism and the wrong perspective of the government of the issues of inequality this essay should be the one for you, or actually, everyone.

10. When They See Us

Based on a true story, this Netflix series narrates the infamous Central Park Five case of 1989, when five black boys were wrongfully convicted for a crime they did not commit. The four-season series, capturing a story over the span of 25 years, demonstrates the failure of a justice system that’s meant to protect us, and everything that these five boys went through after being accused of rape, convicted, and then exonerated in 2002.

Words by Chiara Ferrari

Graphics by Frances Scott

The post Educate Yourself and Consume the Right Media for Black History Month appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Beyoncé is continuing to admirably give back to the community. It was announced via her BeyGOOD foundation that she is donating $1 million in additional funds to help Black-owned small businesses.

The superstar and her foundation partnered with the NAACP in July to launch the Black-Owned Small Business Impact Fund. The goal is “to help strengthen the small businesses and ensure economic empowerment for Black businesses.

There were applications for the fund which closed in July, and 20 recipients were announced in August. There were grants of $10,000 first offered to businesses and the fund will begin accepting applications for the second round of donations.

Beyoncé has had a busy year, she recently released her Disney+ exclusive visual album Black Is King which touched upon the issues that Bland made an appearance on the One World: Together at Home virtual concert in April. During her appearance, she spoke out about the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on Black Americans. “This virus is killing Black people at an alarmingly high rate here in America,” she stated, pointing out that Black Americans “disproportionately belong” to the workforce that are deemed as essential workers.

This year, Beyoncé has been relentless with her support for Black Americans and the star has shown her support for the Black Lives Matter movement. She made a statement on the death of George Floyd writing on her website “No more senseless killing of human beings, no more seeing people of colour as less than human. We can no longer look away”. In June she also demanded justice for Breonna Taylor, who was killed by police in March, via an Instagram post urging her followers to sign a petition.

Words by Chris Saunders

The post Beyoncé Donates $1 Million to Help Small Black- Owned Businesses through the BeyGood Foundation appeared first on Voir Fashion.

After months of anticipation, the presumptive Democratic candidate Joe Biden announced that his pick for vice president in the presidential race is the junior U.S. senator Kamala Harris.

Senator Harris will join Biden in the race to unseat Donald Trump and his VP Mike Pence, who will be running for a second term in the upcoming elections planned for November.

This is an unprecedented decision for the US: if Biden wins the elections, Harris will be the first woman, first Black person and first Asian American to hold the position in the history of the United States. But who is Kamala Harris? And what advantages will she bring if elected? Here’s everything you need to know about her life.

Kamala Devi Harris was born in Oakland, California to an Indian mother and a Jamaican father. She grew up in Berkley where she attended an all-white elementary school in the midst of the second year of integration. After her parents’ divorce, Kamala moved to Montreal, Canada with her mother and continued her studies. Following high school, Harris attended Howard University, a prestigious Black college in Washington, D.C. where she specialised in political science and economics. She then pursued her studies in law in San Francisco where, once successfully passing the Bar, Kamala became a lawyer.

For the past two decades, Harris has dedicated her life to public matters showing her interest in the political agenda. In 2004, Kamala was the first Black female District Attorney to be elected for San Francisco where she focused on cases involving the abuse and the neglect of children. Yet, only six years later, she made history again becoming the first Black woman to be elected California’s Attorney General where she worked on defending the state’s climate change law, legalising gay marriage and ‘Open Justice’, an online platform to make criminal justice data available to the public. Her work in California drew the attention of President Barack Obama who she had previously endorsed during the 2012 elections. According to POLITICO, some advocates claim that ‘Harris didn’t do enough to address police brutality while she was attorney general, especially after she refused to investigate the police shootings of two Black men in 2014 and 2015.’

In 2016, Harris won her U.S Senate race and worked on sponsoring bills that would ensure migrant’s rights are protected as well as supporting survivors of sexual harassment. She was praised for her astonishing accomplishments until then, with some newspapers referring to her as ‘the female Obama’. That same year, she voiced her opposition to many of Trump’s policies following his election. In 2017, she went viral on social media for her sharp questioning of Trump’s supreme court judge nominee Brett Kavanaugh, who was accused of sexual assault by Dr. Christine Blasey Ford.

Kamila Harris, Brett Kavanaugh via Click On Detroit | Local 4 | WDIV Youtube Channel

Last year, Harris announced her intention to run as a presidential candidate for the Democrat nominee for 2020 and was supported by many notable people, including Reese Witherspoon, Katy Perry, Ariana Grande, and Demi Lovato. During her time as a candidate, Harris was imitated on Saturday Night Live by actress Maya Rudolph. Unfortunately, due to a lack of funds, she pulled out of the race in early December. Later in March, Kamala showed her support for Biden: ‘I believe in Joe. I really believe in him, and I have known him for a long time,’ she stated in her announcement.

Maya Rudolph, Kamala Harris via Washington Post Youtube Channel

This year’s elections could represent a new achievement not only for Harris but also for the United States. Her role in the presidential race could represent a threat to Trump’s plans who is becoming more and more worried about his future in this unique elections. Words by Gennaro Costanzo

Graphics by Clare Stephenson

The post Kamala Harris: Everything You Need to Know About Her Role In the US Elections appeared first on Voir Fashion.

With powerful performance and overflowing emotion, Jorja Smith seeks justice with her new track ́By any means ́.

Between R&B rhythms and deep sounds, Jorja Smith transmits to us through her incredible voice and high vocal level, her strength, and her beauty. Not only external but also internal, with a hymn, a statement against social injustice, and a call to the unit.

Inspired by the Black Lives Matter protest, the Walsall singer brings us lyrics that really reach us. Tired of the white lies and the passage of time, the constant pain, and the headlines of injustice camouflaged by white lies and promises, Smith recognizes the heat of the rising fire and the incomprehension of the enemy. Breaking the silence, she reminds us of the power to join hands and fight for a change and a destiny.

Jorja Smith- By Any Means (Official Video)

The video directed by Otis Dominique and Ellington Hammond is her grain of sand to change the current reality, to stand in front of a problem, to show us that although we look different we are all human, united, and together for a change.

“We are here”, says the artist, empowering ourselves with a feeling of justice, creating a revolution of meanings and words that motivates us to stand side by side and fight in this revolution. Breaking chains together. Both feet on the line, standing our ground.

The video unites family and friends of the singer, members of the No Signal radio team, Wonderland editor-in-chief Toni-Blaze Ibekwe her mother, youth sports charity Street League Services, and figures from Escalate Inc and Football Beyond. All together with heads held high and powerful gazes, a mirror of their strength and beauty, empowerment, and hope, waiting for an answer on the streets of England.

This incredible song is the beginning of the Reprise project by Roc Nation, A musical protest by different artists who seek after their songs to raise their voices and raise awareness about police brutality, hate crimes, and other social injustices that violate civil rights. With the result of raising funds for The Gathering for Justice, NACDL Foundation For Criminal Justice, Equal Justice Initiative Mission, and Cop Accountability Project. And although it seems like a long road to freedom, Jorja has left an unmatched mark and will leave more prints through her towering talent and heart. Her implication in this piece and the power it transmits will prevail in our consciousness.

We will respond to their call for outrage and together we will raise our fists. By any means, we care and stand in the line with you Jorja.

Words by Cami Martinez

Graphics by Clare Stephenson

The post ‘By Any Means’: Jorja Smith Reveals her Newest Single Calling Justice for Black Lives Matter appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Midway through Black is King, the new visual album by Beyoncé, a voiceover starts speaking on the theme of kingship and responsibility: “The royalty in you is there for you to be a blessing to others”. Obviously it’s talking about Simba, represented throughout the film in human form (from a small boy in cowhide to a thrill-seeking adolescent, rowdily cruising through a neon-bathed city at night). But it’s hard not to take it as a nod to the artist herself, Queen Bey, whose aim in making this album is centered around exactly that mentality: using her worldwide platform to raise the profile of others, especially African creatives.

This purpose is clear from the outset. In the opening scenes, Beyoncé’s voice announces her intention to celebrate the African diaspora and its culture; as she walks along a beach cradling a baby in her arms, the viewer hears her honeyed Texan lilt: “We journey far, and can still always find something like home”. Later, during ‘Already’, a crowd of dancers ripple the Pan-African flag (horizontal stripes of red, black, and green, designed by Marcus Garvey in 1920), a bold banner of political unity for all those of African descent. And at the end of opening song ‘Bigger’, a seascape emerges onscreen while Beyoncé’s voice is heard again: “The coast belongs to our ancestors,” she says, as we are presented by the brooding blues of dusk on the shoreline.

Beyonce, Shatta Wale, Major Lazer- ALREADY- From Beyonce Youtube Channel

Through both sight and sound, Black is King foregrounds this powerful vision of pre-colonial Africa, and brings its symbolic weight to bear on the racial injustice and inequalities of today. But it isn’t symbolism alone; Black is King incorporates and promotes Black talent from across the creative industries. African collaborators make up a significant part of the track-list (the Nigerian musician Tekno on ‘Don’t Jealous Me’, the Malian singer Oumou Sangaré on ‘Mood 4 Eva’), and this extends to the clothing and set design. The effect of these choices is substantial and immediate; Loza Maléombho, a designer based on the Ivory Coast, made a monochrome jacket with oversized shoulder- pads for Beyoncé to wear in ‘Already’, which has already become a fashion hit.

It goes without saying that the visual element is striking, inventive, and overwhelmingly beautiful – we have come to expect nothing less after the sensory masterpieces of Beyoncé (2013) and Lemonade (2016). But where those albums – especially Lemonade – were personal and emotionally intimate, Black is King is panoramic, swooping, and almost Biblical in scope and tone. Instead of looking inward, it reaches outward; the camera repeatedly wheels down from above, seeking out Beyoncé as a single figure on deserts, oceans, in a flower-filled boat on a lake, or reclining in a meadow (her outfit the colour of sunflowers).

The cameos, too, are nothing short of glorious. Before Lemonade, we would have never dreamed of Serena Williams twerking in black and white, but now – after it’s happened– we honestly can’t imagine a world without it. The same goes for Black is King; before its release, we could not have imagined Beyoncé serenading Naomi Campbell, or visualised Tina Knowles at a tea party crowned with a headdress of fuchsia pink feathers. But now, it seems incredible that such scenes weren’t out in the world sooner.

Beyoncé grounds the grandiose cinematography and superpowered outfits with her now-signature mix of cheek and charm. Her more “fun” side was first glimpsed in the ‘Flawless Remix’ video with Nicki Minaj, and on the “homemade” 7/11 music video (a lockdown-friendly hit before the lockdown was even on the horizon) – here, it’s shown in flashes of social satire. During ‘Mood 4 Eva’, Beyoncé and Jay-Z play mistress and master of a pastel orange palace, and she struts around in a voluminous silk dress while a (white) butler follows, dutifully carrying her train. There are not one but two scenes showing paintings of Beyoncé as the Madonna, complete with spiky halo – kitsch at its outrageous best.

In the second of these, she and Jay-Z stand in front of the portrait in a partial recreation of the Apesh*t, Whereas before it was the Mona Lisa presiding over them, now it’s Beyoncé herself. Her art and her output have come full circle; as well as challenging how the past is presented, she’s now creating new narratives to take into the future. In the interlude between ‘Water’ and ‘Brown Skin Girl’, a male voice speaks: “We need to show Black men and women are emotional, are strong, are smart, intuitive”. Black is King may not be perfect – and has come under some criticism from other artists – but as a celebration of Black talent and creativity, it surely succeeds at its own intention, and succeeds in spectacular style.

Words by Jaleh Brazell

Graphics by Clare Stephenson

The post Black is King: Queen Bey and Royal Responsibility appeared first on Voir Fashion.

Beyoncé has given the people an anthem of cultural pride just when the world needs it most.

Following the unlawful death of George Floyd, the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement has been sparked across the world. With all 50 states and 18 additional countries protesting for racial equality, Beyoncé has been a leading supporter of the movement. She has used her social media presence as a means of activism, encouraging people to sign petitions to get justice for others who have died at the hands of police brutality. In an open video message, she pleaded with her followers to be a part of this movement, and to help the families of the victims.

When Beyoncé surprised fans with a new song in the final hours of the 19th of June, she was bookmarking Juneteenth into history.

Juneteenth is the celebration of slaves being emancipated on the same date, in 1865. The song- named “Black Parade”- is a call to action for African Americans, as she lyrically encourages them to be proud of their roots, of where they come from. This is especially potent when she sings “I can’t forget that my history is her-story”. The song is rich in cultural references, coming from all over the continent of Africa. From the “Ankh” symbol that comes from Egypt to the West African goddess of love and femininity, “Oshun”. This broadens the horizons of who can relate to the lyrics, and who can emotionally connect with the song.

Check out Beyoncé’s New single above

When you listen to it, it’s almost overwhelmingly full of pride and emotion. It feels like a community breaking through and refusing to keep quiet about their culture anymore, and it’s absolutely beautiful. The essence of it reminds me of writers such as Toni Morrison and Grace Nichols, who both wrote about being proud of their roots, and embracing their history. When posting about the single on Instagram, Beyoncé wrote “Please continue to remember our beauty, strength, and power.” Black Parade” celebrates you, your voice, and your joy”.

Alongside the song came the BeyGOOD Black Business Impact Fund. This new campaign is made to support and promote black-owned businesses and elevate them during these hard times. The fund will be administered by the National Urban League. Alongside this announcement on her website came a directory of black businesses, ranging from Art and Design to Restaurants and Bars.

While the BLM movement continues to take over the world in a wave of justice, it’s important to help independent owners.

The song is so rich that I could spend hours analysing every word or image included in it. It is the perfect song to release and is exactly what people needed right now. Empowerment, freedom, and pride.

Words by Abigail Forrest

Graphics by Katie Janes

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The post Beyoncé Releases Surprise Single “Black Parade” to mark Juneteenth celebrations appeared first on Voir Fashion.

As the wind of the Black Lives Matter protests keeps rising in America and around the world, the beginning of Pride Month marks a new addition to the movement in support of Black trans people.

Together, the LGBTQ+ community and the BLM movement have been the protagonists of this week’s latest protests. Activists have rallied in multiple cities across the U.S. to highlight undermining issues that affect Black LGBTQ+ individuals, such as police brutality, discrimination, and racism.

Thousands of people have marched for change and justice following the killing of two Black trans women, Dominique “Rem’mie” Fells, 27, and Riah Milton, 25. Fells was found dead on the shore of the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia, while Milton was shot several times in a robbery attempt in Ohio.

Dominique Fells and Riah Milton Illustrations by African@AAPolicyForum

Their deaths fuelled anger among the Black and the LGBTQ+ communities, especially after the police misgendered the victims and following the decision of President Trump to allow health care providers to deny support for trans individuals.

It’s not the first time Black trans people have been targeted or discriminated by the police: earlier in March, three other Black trans individuals were murdered and their names never got to be remembered.

As reported by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), in 2020 there’s been at least 15 transgender or gender non-conforming people murdered by violent means, but many other stories may still be unreported.

However, united in a country-wide protest, people are demanding to have justice, to say their names, and to show love to Black trans lives. On June 14, an estimated 50,000 people manifested in New York City, Los Angeles and Brooklyn, equipped with colourful signs and white t-shirts as a nod to the 1917 silent protest parade organised by the NAACP.

The peaceful protests and silent vigils were also accompanied by Drag marches, speakers and Pride Liberation manifestations, and will continue to protest in the next couple of days.

Some of the organisations present at the rallies included: the Marsha P. Johnson Institute, The Okra Project and Black Trans Femmes.

‘All Black Lives Matter’, the powerful statement painted on Hollywood Boulevard, LA, is the background for these protests which have now flooded social media feeds.

On Twitter, the families and friends of the victims share some thoughts and memories, inciting people to call for justice. The hashtags and serve as a tribute to them but also to get people involved in the protests.

Between protests, petitions and donations, there are many ways you can spread awareness to help the movement: with the many LGBTQ+ organisations involved, you can financially support the community by visiting their website and make a donation.

Donate here: • The Okra Project

• The Black Trans Travel Fund • Black Visions Collective • All About Trans • The Marsha P. Johnson Institute • GoFundMe (for Fells and Milton’s funerals)

You can also share the number for the first transgender suicide hotline in the U.S., the

Trans Lifeline. Reach at 877-565-8860.

Additionally, these are some of the petitions you can sign:

Justice for Pete

Protect Black Trans Women!

More protection for Black Trans Women UK

Words by Gennaro CostanzoCover by Clare Stephenson

The post Black Trans Lives Matter: How To Donate To Support The Movement appeared first on Voir Fashion.

As America burns in protest, our attention has been drawn to ways we can recognise and actively break down not just overt racism in the form of police brutality, but ingrained, institutionalised racism that is chosen by many to only sometimes be seen, only sometimes be heard, but yet it is always felt. Where signing petitions and donating to funds are necessary short-term acts of activism, we must consider long term physical courses of action we can all make to ensure change.

A brilliant, well-articulated video (you can find it here) from Paul Carrick Brunson has circulated on Instagram, explicitly listing five things we can all do to support the Black Lives Matter movement; one being to financially support and buy from black businesses. The idea of this being that it increases black employment and filters money into the black community. He very powerfully stated that in the US, for every dollar put into the Asian community, it will bounce around enriching other Asian people for an average of 28 days. In the black community, it lasts less than six hours before bouncing right out again. It’s plain and simple: endorsing and choosing to spend your money at black-owned businesses will have a bigger impact than you think. When you have shared every white privilege post and hashtag there is on social media, put your money where your mouth is and as Rihanna said, pull up.

On the flip side of this, your reasoning behind supporting these businesses should not only be because they’re owned by black people, but because more importantly, they are good brands. Nobody wants your pity pounds. Support them because their products are excellent and their service is outstanding and their ethics are admirable, like you would any other brand and then continue to do so.

So, let’s start with beauty – an industry which more often than not, lacks representation in all aspects, from influencer brand deals to shade ranges and a repeatedly biased definition of the term ‘nude’. Spend your coin and spend it wisely. Here are 10 black-owned beauty brands that you should buy from and five other brands that took no time acknowledging exactly how to support the BLM movement and consequently, are worth an honourable mention too.

Uoma

Check it out here: https://uomabeauty.com/

51 foundation shades. If that isn’t inclusivity then I don’t know what is. This Nigerian born but LA and London founded brand by Sharon Chuter is created for all. ‘At UOMA we are an empowered tribe. Our race is human, our people are free, our language is colour. All are welcome to our beautiful tribe.’ Think culture meets freedom of colour and expression with its *stunning* collections endorsed by no other beauty guru heroes than Jackie Aina and Patrick Starrr.

Nuban Beauty

Check it out here: https://nubanbeauty.com/

This Nigerian cosmetic brand focuses on creating affordable high-quality, products in Africa with an international standard. Founder Stella Ndekile, a Lagos based Medical Laboratory Scientist and part-time makeup artist partnered with celebrity make-up artist Jane Ogu to create this brand of premium makeup accessible to all. Shipping around the world, you’d be missing out if you weren’t to check out its eyeshadow palettes. Did somebody say the word pigmentation?

Beauty Bakerie

Check it out here: https://www.beautybakerie.com/

Cashmere Nicole founded the brand in 2011 after overcoming a multitude of hurdles in her life including becoming a single mother at a young age, enduring college and nursing school and later undergoing a double mastectomy in a battle against breast cancer. Through this was the birth of Beauty Bakerie, accompanied by the brand motto ‘better, not bitter.’ This brand with a remarkable story is well known for its best-selling Flour Setting Powder, which adheres to its baking brand identity appreciated by those of us with a sweet-tooth.

Dizziak

Check it out here: https://dizziak.com/

British ex- magazine journalist Loretta De Free founded Dizziak London, a haircare brand made for everyone and every hair type. The brand’s Afro-futuristic logo is one to look out for and especially worth checking out if you’re somebody whose hair is thirsty for moisture. Try its Hydration Wash and Deep Conditioner for yourself and join the aphrodisiac stan club.

Lauren Napier Beauty

Check it out here: https://www.laurennapier.com/

When it comes to the removal of makeup, we are used to the wipes, micellar waters and face halos of the world, but have you heard of Lauran Napier Beauty’s Cleanse, Flaunt and La Rose cotton cloths? Not only do they claim to remove even the most stubborn and waterproof scraps of makeup, but simultaneously prep and hydrate your skin too, meaning they can be used for instant refreshment popped in your handbag. These premium unisex clothes have been featured in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar and could be a fitting luxury gift item for a loved one or a treat to yourself. Reseal them and reuse.

Oui the People

Check it out here: https://www.ouithepeople.com/

Extending to the more deluxe end of our price scale, Oui the People have designed the premium shaving experience for all. You cannot notice this brand without being drawn to its celebratory ethos and commitment to reconstructing language around shaving and beauty standards for women. Its razors are made for women, rather than a male-catered razor repackaged in pink. These steel, refillable and reusable razors make for a fabulous, eco-friendly alternative to the 2M plastic razors that end up in landfill every year.

The Crayon Case

Check it out here: https://www.thecrayoncase.com/

A cosmetic line dedicated to amateur makeup users – genius. A fun and playful brand that simplifies and enables the sometimes complicated and overcrowded beauty industry with quirky products, at an affordable price point too. Recommended are its stunning palettes with shadows that will pop, and the highlighter concealer which comes in 30 shades from cool to deep tones, including colour correcting shades too. AND these are all packaged in multicoloured pen packaging, that is like no other.

Fenty Beauty

Check it out here: https://www.fentybeauty.com/

When Rihanna decided she was entering the beauty industry, she made ground-breaking waves. Where it is a given that this incredible brand needs no introduction and has achieved mass success in its own right, it is important to remember why a brand like Fenty Beauty continues to do so well four years after its launch; innovative products and extensive shades with inclusive campaigns and a clear brand identity that caters to all.

Pat Mcgrath Labs

Check it out here: https://www.patmcgrath.com/

Make room for an OG. When Vogue Editor Anna Wintour coins you as ‘the most influential makeup artist in the world’, it’s not surprising that for over two decades, Pat McGrath has shaped the global fashion and beauty industry and regularly directs runway makeup for all major fashion weeks. When she launched her own brand in 2016 the same integrity and passion was poured into her makeup, leading to no shock when Naomi Campbell became the new face of the brand this year.

Pear Nova

Check it out here: https://www.pearnova.com/

Awarded the Essence Best In Black Beauty 2020 prize, Pear Nova is designed in Chicago, made in the US, cruelty-free, vegan friendly and 5 free, which means no formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, camphor, toluene, and dibutyl Phthalate DBP – all things that like myself, you probably didn’t even realise were in nail polish. You can custom create your very own collection online too; a supernova in the nail industry for sure.

: 5 Honourable Mentions

Glossier

Check it out here: https://www.glossier.com/

Glossier is donating $500k across the Black Lives Matter, the NAACP Legal Defence and Educational Fund, The Equal Justice Initiative, The Marsha P. Johnson Institute and We The Protestors organisations. It is also donating another $500k in the form of grants to black-owned beauty businesses.

Sunday Riley

Check it out here: https://sundayriley.com/

Founder of the brand Sunday Riley attended the same school as George Floyd and has chosen to donate $50,000 to the NAACP Legal Defence and Educational Fund.

Nails Inc

Check it out here: https://www.nailsinc.com/

During the month of June, Nails Inc will be donating 100% of its US profits to Black Lives Matter.

Dermalogica

Check it out here: https://www.dermalogica.co.uk/

The brand stated on Instagram it will be donating to the NAACP, having conversations at work about race and white privilege and encouraging employees to have these at home too, and also educating itself on the work that needs to be done and supporting organisations that are fighting for equality.

Herbivore Botanicals

Check it out here: https://www.herbivorebotanicals.com/

In place of making a one-off donation, Herbivore Botanicals have stated it will be donating 100% of its profits from last weekend to Black Lives Matter, The Minnesota Freedom Fund and the American Civil Liberties Union.

Click on all the above links to find out more information, be educated and learn how to donate.

Words by Amy Arfi

Graphics by Katie Janes

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The post Our Top Beauty Brands Supporting the Black Lives Matter Movement appeared first on Voir Fashion.