‘Start Loving Black People’ is Empowering Black Voices, Posing the Question: “Why Do We Love Black Culture, but Not Black People?”

There is no denying the immense impact of Black culture, as it stands as one of the most influential forces in shaping society. Whether in fashion, music, or through innovation, Black culture transcends boundaries. It’s everywhere, leaving a permanent mark on the world. However, it remains a disheartening reality that while the world embraces and celebrates the contributions that emerge from Black culture, there exists a recurring pattern of dismissing the very creators behind these remarkable achievements. This leaves the question: Why does society often exhibit an affinity for Black culture while simultaneously neglecting or overlooking the significance and worth of Black individuals themselves?

‘Start Loving Black People,’ a new lifestyle brand, aims to challenge society to love Black people, as they do Black culture.

“Our mission is to create a space to elevate and amplify Black voices, says Charles Bourgeois, Founder of  SLBP, Inc. “When we Start Loving Black People® we can acknowledge Black allies, Black culture & Black people, through a platform that generates awareness and inspires conversation.”

Kicking off Juneteenth, the brand held its inaugural event this week at Atlanta’s South DWNTN. The experience included panel discussion centered around supporting Black people and encouraging the uplift of the community. More than 500 attendees got to hear from industry leaders Angel McCoughtry, 2x Olympic Gold Medalist & WNBA All-Star; Justin Miller, ESQ. Civil Rights and Trial Attorney, Entrepreneur & Activist; Angela Watts, CEO & Producer – Atlanta Fashion Week & Ragtrade Atlanta; Brandon Butler, CEO & Founder Butter ATL Culture Channel and Media Company; Cam Kirk, CEO Cam Kirk Studios, Photographer and DJ Loui Vee, Program Director, 105.3 The Beat iHeart Radio ATL. Krystal “KG” Garner, Winner of BET’s The Grand Hustle, served as the discussion’s moderator.

“Intentionality. I wanted to cultivate community…each individual can connect with another and create opportunities where, I think, if we can interact as Black people with love and intention, then we can have a great outcome. That’s the action. Love,” said the event’s organizer Dona Mathews.

‘Start Loving Black People‘ is committed to advancing its mission through upcoming events and initiatives.