Black Culture Would Be Lacking Without These 4 Influencers

person in a yellow shirt and a colorful skirt holding a pride flag
Adé Hennis
October 20, 2024

Forget the status quo—if you want to talk about shaping Black culture, let’s dish about William Dorsey Swann, Gladys Bentley, Marsha P. Johnson, and Stormé DeLarverie. These icons of fabulousness didn’t just exist; they insisted on being seen, heard, and celebrated.

William Dorsey Swann, the self-proclaimed “Queen of Drag,” was out here in the late 19th century throwing balls that would eventually lead to ballroom and vogue culture. He didn’t just serve looks; he served up a big ol’ slice of resistance against a society that wanted to suppress him.

Gladys Bentley, the sultry singer, took the 1920s by storm. Bentley was the epitome of in-your-face sass, defying gender norms and using her voice to proclaim, “I’m here, and I’m fabulous.” She paved the way for queer expression in a time when society preferred to keep everyone in neat little boxes.

Enter Marsha P. Johnson, the fierce activist who threw the first brick at Stonewall. With a heart as big as her personality, she championed LGBTQ+ rights, reminding us that joy and revolution go hand in hand.

Stormé DeLarverie, the “Rosa Parks of the Stonewall,” made bold lavish choices that helped pave the way for androgynous fashion. Her spirit still ignites pride and resilience. Their legacies continue to inspire new generations, reinforcing the power of performance as a means of cultural expression and community building. Through their art, they have redefined embracing and celebrating Blackness, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.

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