Black Women Editors On How To Make It In The Media World
There's Andre Leon Talley of Vogue and Elaine Welteroth, formerly of Teen Vogue; Edward Enninful of British Vogue and Lindsay Peoples Wagner, the newest EIC at Teen Vogue. When it comes to certain industries, it seems like we hear about the same game-changers over and over again - but there has to be more, right?
Seeing black people represented in fashion can be difficult to say the least, especially in the powerful role of editor. Until very recently, the fashion space held little regard for voices of color in writing, for expansions of tones in the office, or for diversity in the pages of glossy magazines. It's not only important to have people of color in these positions, but as a community, it's also integral that we shower them with love and support. It's commonly understood feeling to be the "only one", but these ladies are opening the doors for younger women with every step forward.
Chrissy Rutherford
Senior Digital Fashion Editor and Special Projects Director, Talent & Social at Harper's Bazaar
"I think from the outside, the fashion industry is always going to look glitzy and glamorous. But you have to really be willing to do the work because being an editor is not easy, whether you're an assistant or a senior editor. It's not just about going to parties and getting gifts. I think passion always shines through for those who are sincere about this business and the art of storytelling."
Shiona Turini
Stylist Costume Designer (Insecure), Contributing Editor; former Cosmo Fashion Market Director
"Know your history. Especially in fashion and beauty, where trends are so cyclical and reoccurring. It's not possible to know everything but you are that much more valuable if you know a little about everything or everything about a particular subject. It really shows the depth of care and passion for what you do. Also, maintain relationships everywhere. As industries collide in the digital era, you never know who you'll be working alongside and what you'll be inclined to work on.
"To be in a predominantly white space as an editor, sometimes felt incredibly isolating, but I was also empowered by a history, perspective, and understanding of Black culture that others didn't have. The industry has changed significantly since I first joined. Most of it has been a positive change and we've seen a great increase in diversity. Still, I and many of my black and brown friends find ourselves in challenging positions where race and the harmful portrayal of it in the industry is concerned. It's important to know that your perspective is valid and desired. If you are excited about an idea, concept, product, or business, you can bring them into the light. Don't be afraid to fill the gaps where you see them, and stand your ground and raise your voice when something doesn't sit right with you."
Dana Oliver
Beauty Director at Yahoo Lifestyle
"I always tell aspiring editors that consistently reading good writing is what makes a good editor. Immerse yourself in the works of those you are inspired by, as well as writing from a genre that is totally out of your realm. This helps to not only expand your thinking (brainstorming is a 24/7 process as an editor), but you'll also learn how to articulate your thoughts.
"I also strongly encourage interning or freelancing — even if it's not a paid opportunity. Sometimes you have to be willing to sacrifice not making money to acquire new skills that will truly pay off in the future. So, soak up as much knowledge as you can and challenge yourself by taking on assignments you would normally pass up.
"Working in a predominately white space as a black editor has its pros and cons. Naturally, I've experienced a range of emotions — from being isolated and misunderstood to feeling as though I must speak on behalf of my entire community. But I've managed to use my platform to produce positive results by educating my colleagues on matters and topics they aren't aware of, and even advocating for the recruitment and hiring of more black editors and writers. Our voices do matter, and it's time that we control our narrative."
Featured image by Vanni Bassetti/Getty Images
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Courtney is a contributing writer, based in Puerto Rico by way of Tennessee. Interested in the intersection of fashion and culture, she has an affinity for fashion, empowerment, and really good tacos. Keep up with her on Instagram (@hautecourtxo).
ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
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When discussing the topic of raising children, discipline is often the first thing that comes to mind. Children need discipline. Full stop. But what is discipline? And how do we draw the line between discipline and revenge?
The origin of the word "discipline" can be traced back to the Latin word "disciplina," which means "instruction" or "teaching." Over time, however, discipline has come to be synonymous with punishment, with parents relying on shame, fear, and/or physical pain to curb undesirable behavior.
Teaching takes time, so nipping it in the bud in whatever fashion parents deem necessary (within reason) has become the norm. But is this what’s best for children? And when does it become less about curbing undesirable behavior and more about getting our licks back for offenses we feel our children should know better to do?
In my work as a parenting coach, I’ve often heard parents say, “I asked him nicely three times before spanking him. He didn’t stop doing it until I did, so clearly talking doesn’t work.”
And the parent isn’t wrong. Talking often doesn’t work the first, the third, or the even the 10th time. And the reason is directly tied to brain development.
Children cannot and do not process information the way an adult can. Auditory processing is not fully developed until a child is 14 or 15 years old. And even then, if a child has auditory processing delays or Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), they may always struggle with processing auditory commands. According to Susie S. Loraine, MA, CCC-SLP, the term auditory processing refers to how the brain perceives and interprets sound information. Several skills determine auditory processing ability—or listening success. They develop in a general four-step hierarchy, but all work together and are essential for daily listening.
Without this understanding, discipline can easily become revenge because parents will then view their child’s misdeeds as a personal slight. Instead of teaching them to do better, parents now want to show them the consequences of not doing better. This is why it's imperative for parents to discern between discipline and revenge to maintain healthy relationships with their children.
5 WAYS TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN PARENTAL GUIDANCE AND RETALIATION:
Understanding The Intent
Discipline is rooted in love and concern for the child's well-being. It focuses on teaching lessons and helping children understand the consequences of their actions. Conversely, revenge-driven actions stem from a desire to inflict pain or punishment as payback for perceived slights or disobedience. Parents should reflect on their motives before taking disciplinary actions. Ask yourself whether your intention is to help your child learn or to make them suffer for upsetting you.
Example: If a child accidentally breaks a valuable item, a disciplinary response would involve discussing the importance of being careful and working with the child to come up with a way to replace or fix what they’ve broken. On the other hand, a vengeful reaction might involve yelling, harsh punishment, or bringing up past mistakes to intensify guilt.
Maintaining Emotional Regulation
Effective discipline requires parents to remain calm and composed, even in challenging situations. It's natural to feel upset or frustrated when children misbehave, but responding with anger or resentment can escalate the situation and blur the line between discipline and revenge. Before addressing the issue, take a moment to breathe and collect your thoughts.
Example: If a child cannot follow instructions, a disciplined response would involve calmly explaining why their cooperation is necessary in working with the child to accomplish the goal. Conversely, a retaliatory response might involve shouting, name-calling, or resorting to physical punishment out of anger.
Promoting Growth and Learning
Discipline should always aim to promote growth and learning. It involves guiding children toward making better choices and understanding the impact of their actions on themselves and others. Effective discipline strategies include positive reinforcement, setting clear expectations, and providing opportunities for reflection and growth.
Example: If a child repeatedly forgets to complete their chores, a disciplinary approach would involve discussing the importance of responsibility and finding solutions together, such as creating a chore chart or setting reminders with Siri or Alexa. In contrast, a revenge-driven response might involve imposing overly harsh punishments or belittling the child, which can undermine their self-esteem and hinder their ability to learn from their mistakes.
Momo Productions/Getty
Building Trust and Communication
Trust and open communication are essential components of a healthy parent-child relationship. Discipline should strengthen this bond by fostering trust and encouraging children to confide in their parents without fear of judgment or retaliation. When children feel safe and supported, they're more likely to accept discipline as a form of guidance rather than punishment.
Example: If a child admits to breaking a rule or making a mistake, a disciplined response would involve listening to their perspective, discussing the consequences of their actions, and working together to find a solution. Conversely, a retaliatory response might involve accusations, blame, or shutting down communication, which can erode trust and damage the parent-child relationship.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Parenting is a learning journey, and, disciplining children is a delicate balance between guiding them toward responsible behavior and nurturing their growth. By understanding the intent behind our actions, maintaining emotional regulation, promoting growth and learning, building trust and communication, and seeking professional guidance when needed, as parents we can help our children built on love, respect, and understanding.
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Featured image by Courtney Hale/Getty Images