JCPenney is committed to inclusion and diversity, but don’t just take our word for it. We celebrated Black History Month in style this February with an exclusive Black History Month apparel collection and an inspiring discussion with a top entertainment leader at Warner Bros.
Honoring Black Excellence and Heritage
The first-ever JCPenney collection of curated looks honoring black excellence and heritage was a huge success. A limited-time collection included women’s, men’s, and children’s merchandise for all sizes and ages, and featured home office associates as models in print and online promotions. A webpage on jcp.com featured black associates wearing the collection alongside a quote of what the specially-designed apparel means to them.
“Overall, everyone was thrilled with the results and we hope to expand and work toward an even more compelling collection for next year,” said Ben Sarkardeh, senior assistant buyer.
The collection became available online at our flagship store, jcp.com, on January 15 with almost-immediate sellouts in multiple items. The assortment’s top-selling t-shirts read “Black Excellence” and “Melanin Queen.”
Discussing Representation
In addition to the merchandise component of our celebration, the MOSAIC Business Resource Team hosted a Black History Month keynote event at the Home Office. The MOSAIC group is dedicated to supporting professional business opportunities, community outreach, and professional development for our African-American associates.
The event featured an interview with Pam Lifford, president of Warner Bros. Global Brands and Experiences and the highest-ranking African-American woman at the company. Michelle Wlazlo, JCPenney EVP, chief merchant, and Pam’s personal friend, facilitated the lively discussion on the importance of representation in entertainment and workplaces. The keynote event was complete with a fashion show and parade of associates and their families wearing the JCPenney Black History Month collection.
The Company’s commitment to inclusion and diversity is a constant goal, woven into the fabric of JCPenney and influencing our work and partnerships with customers, suppliers, communities, and associates.
