Advocacy is built into the bloodline of Virgil Abloh’s work. Since Black Lives Matters’ recent resurgence, he’s dedicated swathes of his business ideas, Rolodex and wealth to supporting those who have traditionally been overlooked in the fashion industry.
A few months ago, he also announced the Virgil Abloh “Post Modern” Scholarship fund for young Black creatives looking to study fashion-based courses across the globe, raising $1 million for a pot that will be continually added to as time goes on. In tandem with this, he announced an internship programme at Off-White’s Milan office, specifically for Black talent. The first participant is due to start in September.
Next on Off-White’s to-do list? The announcement of a new collection of staples that will support young Black businesses. First revealed on their runway at the start of 2020 — worn by tap dancer Cartier Williams, who opened the show — the hoodies and t-shirts, emblazoned with the phrase “I SUPPORT YOUNG BLACK BUSINESSES”, come in black and white colourways with 100% of proceeds from every sale going to a different organisation each quarter.
The first charity to receive the donated amount from sales of the pieces is Chicago CRED. An organisation that Virgil has a longstanding relationship with, the group — the name of which stands for “Create Real Economic Destiny” — is dedicated to ending gun violence in Chicago.
Over time, the money will be allocated to different charities that support those in need. And you can do your bit by heading to the Off-White website now to buy yours.