The month of February is treasured in America’s Black community, since it is a designated time for Black people to feel celebrated for the trailblazing and monumental strides throughout American history. Prominent brands like Apple are aiding to celebrate Black History Month this year by introducing The Black Unity Collection. The new collection consists of new products, categorized features in their applications and multiple playlists collections of Black music artists in a variety of genres.
Apple Music’s features allow their music listeners to see what their friends are listening to, share playlists and download an entire album without extra cost. Along with their benefits, they also provide college students with a discounted rate for Apple Music for only $4.99, compared to $9.99.
For Black History Month, Apple Music is shifting their platform to another level by honoring the Black musical talents that have come, gone and still thrive to this day. Artists like Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin and Mahalia Jackson have paved the way for other Black musicians like Beyoncé, Monica, Jennifer Hudson and countless others.
According to Apple’s website, “Apple Music will also feature curated playlists, essays, original videos, and more from Black influencers, musicians, authors, and directors, including Erykah Badu, Naomi Campbell, Common, Ava DuVernay, John Legend, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Jaden Smith. Apple Music also commissioned original artwork from college artist Rob Lewis to visually weave together the music programming with the culture it represents.”
The road to building the Black community is by supporting Black owned businesses. Apple Maps and EatOkra have collaborated to create an expansive food guide to Black-owned businesses. This adds visibility to surrounding Black-owned businesses, but it also initiates inclusivity and diversity within Apple.
After the collections launched, Apple Vice President of Inclusion and Diversity, Barbara H. Whye tweeted, “Inclusion just doesn’t happen. You have to design for it. It takes specific actions and behaviors.”
Apple TV has included many Black sitcoms, television shows and movies that venture into the different variations and dynamics of the Black community. Consumers can view these special additions in the app’s Essential Stories section on their Apple TV. Besides entertainment, the Apple News app is shedding light on black journalists and their articles on racism, white supremacy and education. Apple incorporating this space for Black journalists to be expressive and seen can highlight the absolute talents that seem to be overlooked or underestimated.
For Apple’s products, the launch date for the limited-edition Apple Watch for the Black Unity Collection began on the first of February. The Sports Band that is usually available in monochrome colors, comes in a half-red, half-green to represent the Black nationalist flag.
Apple has been known for their innovative technology and products. For them to create an opportunity for Black people to be celebrated and honored during Black History Month, it sets the standard for other prominent brands. Apple has once again proven that they are proactive and progressive.