On a recent July night, RM47 lit up South Central Los Angeles with their infectious track “Buss It,” making a strong case for song of the summer. The audience's electric reaction suggested that Raleigh and MAAD were seasoned 90s veterans performing a cult classic, rather than millennial stars presenting a track released in May.

Black self-expression and self-perception have always been tools of liberation. When deciding on my Juneteenth outfit, I aimed to evoke enthusiasm, optimism, and joy. I wanted to be bold, loud in a celebratory way, to take up space. Enter: The Tango Midi Dyana dress from Sabby Lou Knit.

The soft, curves of the organza bodysuit and skirt paired perfectly with the famed Los Angeles building designed by architect Richard Meier, as did rocking an artsy look from a Black-owned brand and designed by a Black woman to a Black-centered art event.

Even during golden hour, the stunning panoramic Los Angeles views just couldn’t compete with the rich medley of melanin and style. We’d been invited to celebrate Black visual culture with the center’s African American Art History Institute (AAAHI) and—I’m so sorry to be that person, but—we clearly understood the assignment.