ESSENCE, founded in 1970, had already established itself as a leading magazine focusing on the lives and experiences of Black women. However, the 1980s saw several key developments that solidified its importance in both the media landscape and within the African-American community. During this period, the magazine’s covers and content reflected the spirit of the era with themes of empowerment and activism, commemorating Black culture, and fashion and beauty trends of the time.
As the curtains closed in the final months of the ’70s, ESSENCE featured a prominent figure on its cover: Diana Ross. At that moment, Diana was riding the wave of success generated by her recently released self-titled album under the Motown label. The album’s reception was nothing short of remarkable, eventually earning the coveted RIAA platinum status, a testament to its widespread popularity and the impact it had.
The spotlight on Diana Ross at this juncture highlighted the magazine’s commitment to showcasing and celebrating the accomplishments of Black artists. Diana’s success was not just a personal triumph but also a representation of the broader achievements of the Black community in the entertainment world.
Fast forward to July 1984, and the political arena was about to witness a seismic shift that would reverberate across the nation. The catalyst for this upheaval was none other than Reverend Jesse Jackson, a prominent figure in civil rights activism and a charismatic leader within the African-American community.
Reverend Jackson’s decision to enter the presidential race marked a watershed moment. He followed in the footsteps of another trailblazer, Shirley Chisholm, who had been the first African American to seek a major party’s nomination for the presidency in 1972….
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