Tina Knowles-Lawson at the 2017 Essence Music Festival (Photo: Instagram)
There’s no question that the Knowles sisters are unapologetically Black. The proof is in the albums they’ve released throughout their musical careers, most notably Solange’s “A Seat at the Table” and Beyoncé’s “Lemonade.” The sisters are anything but afraid to embrace their Blackness, thanks to their mom.
Tina Knowles-Lawson, who spoke on the Beauty and Style stage at the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans June 30, discussed her personal fashion journey as well as the importance of being “culturally connected.”
The seasoned fashion designer and hairstylist emphasized the urgency of keeping children in touch with their heritage, especially when raising them in areas that aren’t necessarily “Black.” She shared advice given to her daughters on embracing their culture and identity as Black women.
“I taught my girls from day one. … I surrounded them with African art and images of beautiful women that they can relate to,” she said. “I told them that they were beautiful. I showed them every shade of black. We’re all sisters and we gotta celebrate that.”
Knowles-Lawson discussed the impact of representation on the growth
Tina, Solange and Beyoncé Knowles at SNL in 2016 (Photo: Instagram)
and development of Black children, urging parents to get their little ones involved in the community, whether it be at a dance class or a local community center.
The grandmother of four also touched on the importance of financial independence, past money problems and where she got the inspiration for Destiny’s Child’s infamous camouflage costumes.
At the 2016 Essence Music Festival, Knowles-Lawson accepted the Essence Inspiring Leadership Award presented to her by Solange and Kelly Rowland.
