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November 14th, 2026A CelebrationBlack Dandyism has always been about more than aesthetics
Black Dandyism has always been about more than aesthetics. In a country where Black people have been marginalized, the Dandy became a figure who defied the rigid categories of race and class that sought to confine them. Dandyism was displayed during the 1917 Silent Parade in New York City, where the primary objective was to draw national attention to the widespread racial violence and entrenched systemic discrimination endured by African Americans. It was a response to a series of artificially motivated attacks in 1916 and 1917, including the East St. Louis massacre and lynchings in WACO and Memphis. This silent parade was detailed in The Crisis, an African American Newspaper produced and distributed by W.E.B DuBois. DuBois, the first African American to obtain a PhD from Harvard University, who later landmarked the first sociological study on the living conditions of American Americans living in the impoverished slums of Philadelphia’s 7th ward. Through this study, he debunked many racist theories, proving that systemic discrimination and lingering legacies of slavery, not inherent flaws, caused urban poverty. In The Crisis, Black artists were championed and commonly featured legendary poets, writers, and visual artists. While he passed away before the publication of The Crisis, our city’s very own Paul Laurence Dunbar maintained a respectful relationship with W.E.B DuBois, who later included him as one of the Talented Tenth. Born to parents who were once enslaved, Paul Laurence Dunbar was often adorned in well-fitted suits, collared shirts with ties, and pocket watches. Dandyism has always been more than aesthetics. Josephine Baker, born in the same year as Paul Laurence Dunbar’s death, subverted gender norms in the 1920s and 1930s by effortlessly blending androgynous menswear with haute couture. Later, becoming a political activist in the civil rights movement and the French resistance, Baker spoke at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, delivering a speech on her experience as a black woman and entertainer. Seen at the 2025 Met Gala, Black artists like Janelle Monae, Teyana Taylor, Doechii, and more carry on this culture of challenging social and gender norms and celebrating Black excellence. And now, with great honor, I invite you to join me in celebrating becoming a part of the 10% of Black MBA holders. This is more than a celebration of achievement. It is a celebration of legacy. Step into a room full of accomplished, intelligent, and talented Black individuals. From poets to teachers, nonprofit executive directors, retired Navy veterans, DJs, art exhibit owners, writers, beverage makers, and the like. Step into a room of Black excellence. Step into a room of visionaries. Step into a room where history meets the future. I will see you there
Date November 14 , 2026thTime 8pm to 11pmDress code Black tie DandyismLet your creativity shineRSVP HERE