Founded in 2020, Building Black Bed-Stuy has one mission: “To protect and preserve the black community in Bed Stuy and beyond by providing financial relief for black-owned businesses and organizations.” Co-founders Kai Avent-deLeon, Rajni Jacques, Nana Yaa Asare-Boadu, and Dana Arbib have been working toward their goal via fundraising initiatives, product launches, and collaborative Sunday market place with To Many More.
As summer winds down, Building Black Bed-Stuy has shifted its focus onto other initiates, which includes a Vans Authentic collaboration. Unveiled on the organization’s Instagram page, the first-time linkup covers the California brand’s iconic skate shoe in a checkerboard pattern, its name, and colors from the African-American Flag. Although the Authentic’s redesign is relatively simple, its purpose and inspiration is loud and clear. Eyelets, “Vans” tabs, and other details are reimagined through the lens of Avent-deLeon and company’s movement, with direct messaging found on the midsole and laces: “We believe that self sufficiency is key on the journey to black liberation.”
The Building Black Bed-Stuy x Vans Authentic is set to launch on October 1st. Full release details haven’t been revealed yet, but that’s to change soon. In the meantime, enjoy official teaser shots of the pair ahead.
For more sneaker news, check out the New Balance 9060 “Missing Pieces,” a first-time collaboration between the Whitaker Group and New Balance.
Photos via Building Black Bed-Stuy
