Black History Month: JCPenney Gives Back and Celebrates in Style

During Black History Month, JCPenney supported Black students and hosted an engaging discussion with featured artists behind our curated Black History Month merchandise collection.

Suiting Up Students from 11 HBCUs

JCPenney partnered with 11 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide to help 250 students look and feel their best as they transition from campus to professional life. During Suit Up shopping events, students were gifted $100 gift cards to help build their professional wardrobe. JCPenney associates shared tips on how to dress for success and offered interview advice. The goal: to instill confidence in the young professionals, empowering them as they start their careers.

Check out the video below to hear how general manager Matthew Jackson at Store 1965 in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, created an unforgettable experience for two special Tennessee State University students.

Amplifying Nonprofit Partners

We weren’t the only ones in the giving spirit this Black History Month. Our customers had the opportunity to round up their purchase to the nearest dollar throughout February to support organizations that prepare Black students for college and career experiences. Thanks to our generous shoppers, the JCPenney Communities Foundation donated more than $50,000 to The National Urban League and Crowned Scholars.

An Inside Look at our Black History Month Collection

Last Thursday, Feb. 25, JCPenney hosted an engaging JCP Live streaming event with two of the designers behind our 2021 Black History Month collection: Dan Houston and Synthia SAINT JAMES. Moderated by JCPenney senior designer Brandi Wallace, the candid conversation focused on each creator’s unique design process and the resulting products, which are still available in stores and at the JCPenney flagship store, jcp.com.

“I paint from the heart and feature all cultures of the world, so every single piece has a sense of community in its own right. They all bring about that important message of community, togetherness, and unity,” said Synthia.

Watch the full event below to learn more about each designer’s approach to creating bold and joyful work after a challenging year for the Black community.

While we take pride in celebrating Black History Month, we know that lasting change isn’t achieved alone. That’s why JCPenney is proud to partner with HBCUs, nonprofits, and Black creatives who inspire unity. We work to advance our Company commitment to inclusion and diversity every day, and we encourage our customers, suppliers, communities, and associates to help be the change.