By Rosa Bogar
Contributing Writer
October 21, 2012, was declared “Black Fashion History Day” by Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton. When the governor’s Proclamation was read by “fashion enthusiast” Roger Clark to the crowd gathered at the Capri Theater in North Minneapolis that Sunday evening, it brought down the house with thunderous applause.
The event was historic, memorable, and enjoyed by all who attended. The emcee was Carol Payne, who also moderated the panel discussion with panelists Rozenia Hoodfuller, a former model; Jewelean Jackson, former director of the Ms. Black MN Pageant Inc.; Sylvia Loveless-Amos, who designed for the entertainers Prince, Jody Watley, and other noted musicians; and Charles Caldwell, a former model and now owner of C. Caldwell Fine Arts Gallery and Studio.
The panel did an outstanding job of informing the audience of what the fashion scene was like during this period known as the “epicenter” of Black fashion in Minnesota. Harvest Prep students Makarei Payne Glass and Azari Jackson added a youthful touch to the program. Another highlight of the evening was the “fashion flashback” when former models took to the runway, modeling from Grover Washington’s “Mr. Magic,” a favorite back in their days of modeling.
Musician Kevin Jackson drew a standing ovation with his tribute to fashion pioneers who have passed away. Special recognition and red roses were bestowed on three “Black Fashion Queens” — Bertha Smith, Phebe Givens and Ophelia Moss — and Certificates of Appreciation went to many other fashion pioneers, many of whom had not seen each other in decades. Many are still talking about how much they learned about these fashion shows of the past.
Thanks for sharing this story and history with the world! This history has know been recognized, celebrated and appreciated. I hope this aspect of history will continue to inspire others. I am happy to say that I lobbied the governor’s office for this well-deserved proclamation. I have been involved in fashion here in Minnesota for 20 years. Please pull up the proclamation and read what these shows meant to the fashion scene in Minnesota.
Thanks again for sharing this great day in the Twin Cities.
Rosa Bogar
Congratulations on your show. Wish I could have been there. Kudos from a New York Fashion Designer. I will definitely attend your next show.
Thanks, June. This truly was a wonderful event. Most importantly the history of these fashions shows. This was truly a dream come true,I have been on this “mission” for awhile, many stories to be told!! I will keep you updated . Always, Rosa Bogar
It was an honor to see the MSR highlighted Mrs. Ophelia Moss in their 2013 Black History Month supplement section. It would also be an honor to see you highlight Bertha Smith, who contributed so much in black fashion,education and community. The MSR has highlighted Phebe Givens,and myself in 2012. I am embarking on a celebration for the upcoming “Black Fashion History Day. Thanks, Rosa Bogar
A-shaa to our “Black Fashion Queen” Mrs. Ophelia Moss. Your beauty will continue to shine,”Outward and Within” Thanks for beauty that you have given to the World! Rest in peace A-shaa with love and admiration, always, Rosa Bogar/former fashion designer.
It is an honor to see that the MSR has selected Ophelia Moss as one of the noted African American for their 2014 African-American calendar. This is a wonderful way to keep her memory alive! A-shaa Rosa Bogar
Thank you for letting me be a part of the black fashion awards.
Makarei Payne-Glass
I must say A-shaa to one of our “Black Fashion Queens” Mrs. Phebe Givens your beautiful will be a constant outward and within.”I plan to attend your homegoing.on Tuesday. Thanks, for your rich legacy along with the other two [BFQ’s] Ophelia Moss[2013] and Bertha Smith [2014] Rosa Bogar/former fashion designer