Photos by Gabrielle Spears
In the wake of a pandemic, Black people found themselves fighting for political, economic, health, and racial justice.
Despite the many odds against the culture. despite the necessary and consistent protests and the weight of teaching a nation what is so blatantly obvious regarding the inequalities EVERY Black individual experiences. The Black community also found a reason to celebrate.
June 19, 1865, also known as Freedom Day or Jubilee Day, but commonly, Juneteenth, is the Black day of liberation. For some, it's a recognized holiday and celebrated faithfully with parades, delectables, and a good ass time. But for others, the erasure of Black history has caused this momentous day to fall by the wayside. However, one select group vowed never again to dishonor their ancestors and celebrated block party style at an exclusive Juneteenth backyard boogie.
Private Stock Collective, a small family-owned group of Black creators, business owners, and intellectuals hosted their first-ever Juneteenth field day and barbecue. What began as a simple idea for possible events came full fruition as the collective gathered family, friends and their ancestors to celebrate their ability to laugh, dance, fight, and love.
Held in Inkster, Michigan, a city that provided Black people solace when surrounding cities forbid Blacks from ownership. Private Stock Collective gathered at one of the first Black-owned homes in between the identifying streets of Beech Daly and John Daly. A home that has now been passed between three generations to honor a leader, a war hero, and a father that saw life beyond his years, for it was his blood that carried pride, discipline, and courage. In his time, John Osbourne Roberson planted a seed his grandchildren now water and nurture under the name gifted to them by one of his daughters.
"Y’all are private stock," a phrase heard so often from the voice of Ms. Vera “Wendy” Simons - a mother, grandmother, aunt and survivor. However, it wasn't until her passing, did the collective realize the importance of her words and began wearing the brand like a badge on their chests.
Private Stock Collective, a newcomer to the game but with ancestral wisdom and guidance from their spirit angels above welcome you all to a new way of expression.
Private Stock Collective welcomes you to new freedom.
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