Celebrating Black History Month: 3 Meaningful Ways to Support Black Creators
Black History Month is more than just a celebration of the past – it's an opportunity to actively support and uplift Black creators, entrepreneurs, and artists who are shaping our culture today. At Gnara Apparel, we believe in the power of intentional support and community building. Here are three impactful ways you can show up for the Black community not just this month, but all year round.
Shop Black-Owned Businesses
One of the most direct ways to support Black creators is through your purchasing power. We've curated a list of some amazing Black-owned businesses that deserve your attention:
Jitterbug Art is a Denver-based creative studio where artist Tasha brings the outdoors to life through vibrant watercolor, ink, and digital illustrations. Her nature-inspired pieces, from wall art to stationery, have caught the attention of major brands like The North Face and Otterbox.
Oyin Skincare crafts moisture-rich hair and skin care products using food-grade ingredients. Since 2003, they've been creating clean, effective formulas specially designed for highly textured hair and dry skin.
Tough Cutie Socks makes premium hiking socks with a mission to empower women. Embracing both toughness and style, they're challenging outdoor industry norms while creating high-performance gear that celebrates individuality.
Slimpickins Outfitters curates quality outdoor gear for adventurers of all types. Whether you're planning a camping trip or a day at the park, they provide the equipment and inspiration to help you #adventureout on your own terms.
Support Black-Led Nonprofits
Making a difference goes beyond commerce. These organizations are doing crucial work in their communities and deserve our support:
Golden Brick Events founded by Chevon Powell after an eye-opening experience while backpacking in Vermont, creates transformative outdoor spaces for BIPOC communities. Their signature Refuge Outdoor Festival, launched in 2018, serves as a sanctuary where people of color can freely connect with nature. Through their expanding events and initiatives, they're reshaping what's "believable" for BIPOC in outdoor spaces.
Hike Clerb makes the outdoors more accessible and welcoming for everyone, particularly women of color, through organized hikes and outdoor education programs.
Blackpackers tackles economic barriers in outdoor recreation through a dual approach: providing free or subsidized gear and outdoor experiences, while also creating pathways to outdoor industry careers through education, internships, and job connections. Their mission directly addresses the intersection of underrepresentation and economic vulnerability in outdoor spaces.
Stream Black Artists
Music has always been a powerful force in Black culture, and streaming is a simple yet meaningful way to support Black artists. Here are some incredible voices you should add to your playlist:
Doechii brings fierce energy and innovative sounds to hip-hop, pushing boundaries with her unique style and powerful lyrics.
Arlo Parks crafts intimate indie soul that speaks directly to the heart, with poetic lyrics and gentle melodies that capture complex emotions.
Fana Hues blends R&B with experimental elements, creating a sound that's both familiar and freshly innovative.
Summer Banton delivers soulful vocals over modern production, creating music that bridges generations while staying true to her roots.
Moving Forward Together
Supporting Black creators and communities isn't just a month-long commitment – it's an ongoing journey of intentional action and support. Whether you're shopping, donating, or streaming, every choice to support Black-owned businesses and creators helps build a more equitable future.
At Gnara, we're committed to highlighting and uplifting Black voices and businesses throughout the year, from our gear raffle donations and giveaways to the events we support. We encourage you to bookmark these recommendations and make supporting Black creators a regular part of your lifestyle.
Remember, your support matters. Every purchase, donation, and stream contributes to building stronger, more vibrant Black communities. Know of another Black-owned business, non-profit, or artist we should be supporting? Let us know in the comments so we can amplify! ⬇️
Let's make this Black History Month the starting point for year-round support and celebration of Black excellence.
