In honor of Black History Month, American lifestyle brand, Converse, not only released a “Black Joy” collection, but furthered their collective commitment to amplifying Black voices. Now available online, the 6-piece collection emphasizes the healing, freedom and joy one feels by immersing themself in nature. 

Captured by the Los Angeles River, the campaign stars multi-modality creative healer Naja Crawford, USAL Project founder Michael Washington, and Ebony Beach Club co-founder Gage Crismond. Conceptualized by Converse’s Black colleagues, the 2023 Black Joy collection is composed of the brand’s previously admired sneaker silhouettes and modern twists on classic apparel. Including modern re-imaginings of the brand’s iconic Run Star Motion CX, Chuck Taylor All Star, and Chuck Taylor All Star Construct- the latest model in the Chuck Taylor series inspired by 80s court shoes- the Black Joy collection offers an up-to-date take on the brand’s most celebrated styles. Composed of an array of earth tones, camo prints, and nature-inspired elements, the collection aims to celebrate the comfort, peace, and perspective found in nature – “because Black Joy is a breath of fresh air.” 

In addition to footwear, the collection features three tops, including the Classic Tee in the color Oat Milk, a Classic Hoodie with a floral camo design, and a Women’s Crew Pullover in Dark Obsidian with a botanical camo pattern that nods to 70s flower power. 

Though this is Converse’s first campaign and collection under the Black Joy commitment, the brand has donated $3.7 million in grants in support of the Black Community. This comes in addition to the brand’s parent company- NIKE, Inc.’s- commitment of $40 million dollars toward efforts against systemic racism. In the past year, Converse has also partnered with various social justice initiatives, such as with the American Civil Liberties Union Foundation (ACLU), to break down barriers for marginalized people in the brand’s hometown of Boston. 

Alongside similar initiatives such as Mi Gente, the brand’s Latin Heritage Month campaign, Black Joy represents the brand’s continued year-round commitment to serving underrepresented communities and supporting up-and-coming creatives. Converse’s latest collection asserts that collective progress is essential to the future of fashion and creativity at large. Even more, Black Joy is a sentiment worth honoring, protecting, and celebrating.