On Monday, January 1, 2024, Imani, which means "faith," the final principle of Kwanzaa, is observed.
Imani calls on individuals to believe–without reservation–in family, community, culture, people of African descent and the ultimate victory of their collective struggle.
This principle underscores the fact that belief in what can be achieved inspires people to build strong families, which are building blocks of communities. Without faith, nothing will be achieved.
In 2021 after living in a homeless shelter for a year, Monday Blues made the long journey from Chicago to New York in hopes of attending New York Fashion Week. With just the clothes on their back, they knew if they had the chance to be seen, they could stun people with their designs.
After an Instagram video taken outside of the event by Black Culture News showcasing Blues burlap jacket went viral in 2022, and then again in November 2023, the followers and support came rushing in.
“I remember at that particular moment I was in the shelter in Brooklyn. I woke up and I looked at my phone and I had all these notifications,” Blues told BK Reader. My phone was crazy and I was like, ‘Hey, what's going on?’ Before the video, I had like a little less than 2,000 followers. When I woke up the next day, I had over 30,000 followers.”
Now, they’ve teamed up with Brooklyn-based coffee shop, Devocion, to continue to create clothing that represents their keen eye for style. Blues recalled pitching themself to several coffee brands and finally connecting with the local shop.
Monday Blues exemplifies what can happen when you maintain Imani--faith-- in the community you serve.They also hope to eventually move out of the shelter and find a permanent local working space to fulfill the influx of orders they are receiving.
To read more about Monday Blues and their ongoing journey in reaching their fashion dreams, go here.
Beginning Tuesday, Dec. 26, and for the seven days of Kwanzaa, BK Reader will feature a different local resident or organization that exemplifies one of the seven principles!
