For much of the twentieth century, Black designers faced profound discrimination, often barred from working backstage even when Black performers were featured on stage. Drawing on opportunities created by the Federal Theatre Project and gaining entry into leading institutions such as the Yale School of Drama, they broke into professional unions and brought their artistry to Broadway and beyond. Their accomplishments expanded what was possible, demonstrating unequivocally that Black designers could lead, innovate, and make history in American theatre. Here are a few historic Black designers you should know.

Local Union endorses The ReThread Project, spearheaded by USA 829 Costume Designer Carisa Kelly, with support from director Martin Scorsese, actor Greta Lee, and the New York Fashion Workforce Development Coalition

Within some of the most accomplished pockets of the American labor movement, you can find LGBTQ+ union leaders strengthening worker solidarity, securing provisions for LGBTQ+ workers in union contracts, and truly embodying the phrase “An injury to one is an injury to all” through their activism. These individuals powerfully harnessed eclectic tools for change, including development of caucuses, internal organizing, and legal action, to further protections for LGBTQ+ workers. Their stories are a testament to the power that activism for marginalized groups can have, especially if it treads paths not previously taken.