Thursday evening saw the highly anticipated Racial Justice Network X Leeds RAG Fashion Show event. With all proceeds going to Racial Justice Network, the night was an affair of drinks, talks and tunes in a celebration of black culture in Leeds.
Held at LUU's Function, the night started with Racial Justice Network's Melany giving us an excellent insight into the Leeds-based charity. This included their #StoptheSCANdal campaign, and how racial justice ties into climate, not only in the Leeds community but in a global network. We also got to hear from those most affected by COVID policies at the start of the pandemic, and much more, all through interactive videos featuring a range of people.
RJN currently works with individuals, communities and over 30 organisations across the West Yorkshire region on effective ways of challenging oppressive practices and proactively fighting for racial justice. We learnt about their work encompassing pastoral care, bespoke training programs, educational resources and other campaigns including Unlearning Racism, Race and Climate Justice and International Solidarities - projects that aim to educate, inspire and empower people in the fight against structural oppression and colonial legacies. It was amazing to hear about all this about the cause LRFS is supporting this year straight from the charity.
Following this was an incredible music interval, featuring talented young black artists, all while the on-site bar became busy with people sipping their drinks. Duo ODIACHI & JULES, alongside Lawrence on guitar wowwed us with their acoustic R&B set, including inspiration from the likes of Daniel Caesar, Drake and Bob Marley. We then got to hear from solo singer Tiger Edison, with Toby Freeman on guitar, whose acapella and ballads of the heart including a stand-out rendition of Celeste's 'Strange', were something to behold!
Before the other artists came on stage, we then heard from stylist and RJN volunteer Sarai, who provided an opportunity to learn more about racial injustices in fashion. It was great to hear about justice and fashion in a range of subjects, including her informative and fun segments on the streetwear and luxury worlds, and how injustices and problems in the industry are all interlinked.
Finally, LRFS x RJN went all out with a spectacular lineup of two of the top young black DJs on the Leeds music scene. With the perfect tunes for a boogie we were treated from IYESHA, a DJ from Leeds’s very own Sable radio playing a selection of footwork, techno and ballroom, and Bridget Eke, DJ and aeronautical engineer student playing amapiano, afrobeats, alte and everything in between. We were also joined by Leeds RAG Fashion Show's very own creative director Jameliah Adekunle selling her popular art prints (Juxta Jams), making for the perfect souvenir for the evening.
A huge night like this couldn't have happened without the hard work of everyone involved. Many thanks to Jess and Mariela from LRFS's charity team, Melany and Sarai from RJN ,and all the brilliant artists who gave their time to celebrate this great cause.
Find out more about RJN, their campaigns and how to get involved on their website. To hear more about LRFS make sure to stay tuned to our Instagram.
With the show fast approaching, grab your tickets now for a seat in support of RJN and Stop Hate UK. You can donate directly via our JustGiving.