Building Black Bed-Stuy Partners with Vans on the Authentic Design

Since its inception in 2020, Building Black Bed-Stuy has been on a singular mission: empowering the Black community in Bed-Stuy and beyond through financial aid to Black-owned enterprises and organizations. Co-founders Kai Avent-deLeon, Rajni Jacques, Nana Yaa Asare-Boadu, and Dana Arbib have made strides in their objective through various avenues, including fundraising events, bespoke product drops, and a collaborative marketplace initiative with To Many More. Now, the organization is venturing into footwear, partnering with Vans for a special edition of the Authentic silhouette.

The collaboration was announced via Building Black Bed-Stuy's social media, revealing a tastefully reimagined Vans Authentic. The iconic skate shoe is dressed in a classic checkerboard pattern but further customized with hues from the African-American Flag. While the visual changes may be subtle, the message is unambiguous.

The shoe’s eyelets, tabs, and laces carry inscriptions reflecting the movement’s ethos: “We believe that self-sufficiency is key on the journey to black liberation.” This collaboration isn't just a fashion statement; it’s a declaration of purpose.

Set to hit the shelves on October 1st, the Building Black Bed-Stuy x Vans Authentic collaboration still has some release details under wraps—but keep an eye out; updates are sure to follow. Until then, the official teaser images offer a sneak peek into what promises to be a footwear release with impact.