Conference

Black Identity, Activism, Empowerment, and Fashion on the College Campus

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Abstract

In this research, we examine how Black identity, activism, and experiences with empowerment are negotiated through fashion by Black women college students attending predominantly white institutions in Iowa. Continuing the examination of Black college women's experiences in predominantly white spaces is important because of the historical significance of Black empowerment on the college campus (Morgan & Davies, 2012). To achieve our purpose, we conducted in-depth semi-structured wardrobe interviews with a photo- and garment-elicitation component (Joy & Number, 2017; Woodward, 2007) with 15 Black women. Interview questions covered fashion-related topics related to campus and surrounding local spaces, pride in Black identity, and activism.

The research will also culminate in a mounted exhibition titled Collegiate Fashion and Activism: Black Women's Style on the College Campus at the Iowa State University Textiles and Clothing Museum Mary Alice Gallery running from February 3–April 17, 2020. Sharing the research in a public exhibition continues modern-day resistance work by displaying current Black women's experience and allowing Black women's voices to be heard while also educating the public, a central component of the land grant mission of Iowa State University.