Holiness Is NOT A Dresscode! -- Fashion In The Black Church

Holiness Is NOT A Dresscode! -- Fashion In The Black Church
Leonitha "Leah.Christianista" Francis


"No Stockings, No Shoes, No Preaching the Good News"


Not only is this statement ignorant and sexist, its also antiquated and embedded in the doctrinal practices of several [Black] churches here in America. Its indicatively reflective of a belief that assumes holiness has a material uniform. This is largely in part to a mixture of generational tradition and ignorance. What equates skirt length with lifestyle over conviction? What mandates hosiery as a prerequisite for salvation verification? Before we attempt to answer these concerns emotionally, let us take into consideration some other factors that might have "Willie Lynch-ed1" the church. Before one can adequately tackle such a taboo subject, we must examine this subject understanding these three aspects: 1. Historically: the historical timeframe during the establishment of the Black church, 2. Socially: the societal and social influences and practices of the same timeframe and 3. Progressively: the progression education has afforded us to make presently.


Historically
During the late 18th century, Evangelical Baptist and Methodist preachers traveled throughout the South in the Great Awakening. They appealed to slaves and numerous people were converted. Blacks found opportunities to have active roles in new congregations, especially in the Baptist Church, where slaves were appointed as leaders and preachers. Slaves developed their own interpretations of the scriptures and found inspiration in stories of deliverance, such as the Exodus out of Egypt as they listened to readings. This insight illustrates how generational traditions just get passed on without question of validity, just "our" infantile comprehension at the time. We were so happy to have access to something that seemingly made us equal to the Whites, we didn't seek our own means of understanding aside from what was handed to us. It has created a generational inheritance of tradition.


Socially
The Black church has always provided platforms for our people. Birthing pseudo-celebrities along its Chittlin' circuit and assisting civil rights activists with their social messages, the Black church has served as the medium by which many have been catapulted into household names. The Black church has been the place that has given us a place, even when society did not, it made us “Somebody’s Nobody”, providing psychological refuge from the white world. During and post slavery, we, African-Americans, had nothing; money, language, freedom, rights – NOTHING! Not even clothes in many instances. Our sole provision was at the hands of those that enslaved us – our masters and overseers. They gave us scraps from their cupboards and tables to feed us and hand-me-downs from their closets to dress us. Mainly those who we have dubbed “the House Slave” benefitted from the best clothing pickings, the rest of us made our garments with the best of what we had. Sundays, generally were the only time when they would congregate for worship often stepping out in their “Sunday Best” because it was the best dress, blouse, skirt or pair of pants they owned and not worn daily in the fields.


Male hierarchy in the early Black church denied ordination opportunities for women, leading middle-class women in the Black church no choice but to assert themselves in other ways, primarily organizing missionary societies to address social issues. These societies also promoted Victorian ideals of womanhood and respectability. Understanding the importance of sophistication and outward appearance in Victorian society, one could easily exude a proper premise to substantiate how some "Holiness Dress Code" rules came into establishment. During this time women were encouraged to be modest and chaste. The body of the woman was seen as pure and clean, women often did not wear any kind of cosmetics (makeup, nail polish) or any other adornments (jewelry). It was taboo to even mention the words "leg" or "breast." Women covered their legs to a much greater extreme, even the bare skin of an ankle was considered risque. In contrast, cleavage was not sexualized to the extent that it is today in Victorian times. These societal norms help to understand why skirt length, proper hosiery and lack of additional visual enhancements (makeup and jewelry) set the standard of holiness attire in the early Black church.


Although taboo, this topic can also become sexist if not examined from a plateau that equally examines the dress code of males as well. In recent years, the Black church has seen the standard suit colors of black, navy, and gray with an occasional brown or beige/tan evolve into, in some cases, mere accent colors to reds, greens, dare I say, even pinks or plaids. The flamboyance of women's attire has become integrated into the ruffles of a man's tuxedo front shirt, the extravagance of women's costume jewelry now has to contend with the exuberance of large ascots and billboard size bow ties. While we commend your appreciation for a tailored cut pant, we'd rather leave certain protrusions for its proper time and place. During the Victorian era, male and female attire complemented each other, rather than competed with each other.


Progressively
Often said if you want to hide something from a Black person, put it in a book. Could the same be said about the Black church and the Bible as far as fashion or suitable attire is concerned? One summer Sunday morning, at the age of 19, one of the church mothers at my home church reprimanded me for not wearing pantyhose. Mother Thomas was well past 80 at the time, and I responded asking her to cite the Biblical scripture which supported her belief. She bashfully, responded that she didn't have one. I was not aiming to disrespect Mother Thomas by any means, but rather supply proof to my (at the time) evolving theory of societal versus Biblical principles of Christian dress code. Taking note of the age difference between Mother Thomas and I, we represent two vastly different generations, my generation being an "information generation" and her generation having not been privy to educational resources. The abolition of segregation, especially in education, has allowed for African-Americans to study Theology freely and equally. Theology and Divinity advancements have allowed us to progressively see that salvation is not based on garments; "Rend your heart and not your garments" (Joel 2:13 NIV), but rather a life of separation [holiness] and without which, no man [or woman] shall see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14 KJV). The question now becomes, is holiness more so decorum or lifestyle?


"Hand-Me-Down" are often referred to as clothing, but it reflects much of Black church tradition. We've passed down so much, these upcoming generations are seemingly revolting and, in some cases, revolutionizing the way we dress for church and how we define holiness in our appearance. This "New Testament" (new generation/age) church wants God to see our lifestyle and hear our heart, not judge and condemn us for not compromising to the traditions of the "Old Testament" (early church). In a society so inundated with sex and exhibitionism, it may seem hard to cling to modest apparel without appearing dated and frumpy, but its all possible, with self respect, the Holy Spirit as a guide (and shopping buddy) and an eye on ever-changing fashion trends.


Quite an unusual introduction, but I am Leah.Christianista and it is my pleasure to engage you in literary stimulation as it relates to fashion here on PardonTheMovement.com. Stay logged in to check my next installment "Modern Modesty". Accessories & Innovation until then. Remember, "Let Your Fashion Be A Praise!"


1 Referencing the damaging effects the tactics of infamous slave owner, Willie Lynch, who authored the historical "Willie Lynch Letter" instructing American slave owners on the power of chaining the minds and mentalities of the black slave.


Sources; Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia online article "Black church" [en.wikipedia.org]

Written July 2011 for PardonTheMovement.com

Summah, Summah, Summah Time: Vacation In Your Backyard

Considering the fluctuating prices of gas and the present state of our economy, re-enacting your version of Oprah and Gayle’s road trip may not be at the top of summer vacation plans. Who really wants to spend $100 before they leave the state? For the frugalist that this economy has driven most of us to be, we want a double return on our investment – a getaway that’s local (yet far), entertaining and relaxing and affordable. The Northeast region offers many of these amenities all within arm’s reach. From the beaches of the Hamptons in New York to the Long Island Sound of Connecticut to Martha’s Vineyard of Massachusetts, there are a plethora of exciting, financial friendly and fun, memory creating getaways right in our own backyard.

New Haven, Connecticut (Connecticut)
From the free historical walking tours to golfing to gambling and entertainment at Sports Haven, enjoy the waterfront tours of the Long Island Sound on The Schooner, Quinnipack and weekend evening cruises at Long Wharf Pier. Visit East Shore Park which offers softball, baseball, soccer fields, tennis and basketball courts and trails for walking, jogging and inline skating or Lighthouse Point Park, Carousel & Beach which offers a public beach for swimming and picnicking, antique carousel and playing fields. Experience their Little Italy neighborhood and dining of various cuisines. Restaurants to Try: Prime 16 (American), Miya Japanese (Japanese and Sushi), Ibiza Restaurant (Spanish and Tapas) Oaxaca Kitchen (Mexican; about $30) Bru Rm at BAR (American, Pizza, Seafood; $15-20).

Martha’s Vineyard (Massachusetts)
Boasts of several fine leisure enjoyment pleasures and opportunities such as spas (The Mod Spa, Conscious Massage, Yoga & Fitness), specialty shops (Chilmark Chocolates, Bowl and Boards, Black Dog Bakery), historic walking tours (Ghost, Gossip & Downright Scandal), and Polly Hill Aboretcum garden. Create memories at some of the vineyard’s lighthouses (Aquinnan, Edgartown, and Gay Head), Flying Horse Carousel and campgrounds. Enjoy photo ops along scenic drives (Cranberry Lands) or along the various beaches (Lucy Vincent, South Beach, Katama). Experience golf and miniature golf at Farm Neck Golf Club or Island Cove Mini Golf, Circuit Avenue attractions, Witch of Endor Sailing Charters or Chappaquiddick Island. Fine dining, bars and clubs (Lola’s, David Ryan’s, The Lampost/Rare Duck).



Jersey Shore (New Jersey)
Long before a group of self proclaimed “guidos” made this location popular via reality television, this was (and still is) a place of summer time enjoyment. Experience Turdo Vineyards and Winery, Cape May Carriage Company, Morey’s Piers or Salt Marsh Safari. Profile along Ocean City Boardwalk or Washington Street Mall when not tanning on Wild Wood or Sunset Beach. Restaurants to Try: Tony Boloney’s (Italian, Pizza, Vegetarian:$2-10), Brando’s Citi Cucina (Italian), Dock’s Oyster House (Steakhouse & Seafood;$30-40), 701 Mosaic (Caribbean, Mediterranean), Mad Batter at the Carroll Villa (American Continental;$15-30), Juan Pablos Margarita Bar (Mexican;$8-23).

The Poconos – The Pocono Mountain Area (Pennsylvania)
Not just for cozy lovers and bubbly newlyweds looking to snuggle in the snowy scenery of the winter, but the warm weather extends the attractions of the mountains of the Poconos as well. The Pocono Manor Stables offers horseback riding while Sky’s The Limit Skydiving Center offers a generous sports complex to fitness and fun enthusiasts alike. Stock Car Racing Express race car tracks, Camelback, Bushkill Falls waterfalls, and Great Wolf Lodge is one of the largest indoor water park and resorts for the inner child in all of us. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area is a great place to fire up the grill and have some great outdoor fun. Need a break from all this excitement? Deerfield Spa is here to send you back home relaxed. Restaurants to Try: Pupster’s Pub & Grub (American,$5-15), Saen Thai Cuisine Limited (Thai), Moya (Eclectic), Sand Spring Restaurant (Contemporary;$31-50), Kundla’s (American;$10), My Daughter’s Place (International).

The Hamptons (New York)
Notorious for hosting for some of the most posh parties and happenings for some of the most wealthiest and A-list people, the Hamptons also has much to offer some of us whom they neglect to mention on the “A-list” as well. *wink* Become the life of the party at Liars Saloon karaoke bar, enjoy Sailing Montauk boat tours, or take it easy at Hither Hills State Park and Atlantis Marine World Aquarium. Visit Cooper’s Beach for taking in some sun, maybe after a class or two at Aloha Surf School then spend an evening Montauk Point Lighthouse watching the sun set. Relax with therapy at Naturopathica Holistic Health Spa or enjoy retail therapy at Tanger Outlets. Restaurants to Try: Joni’s (American;$8), Navy Beach, Jerry and The Mermaid ($20-30), Phao Restaurant (Asian $15-40), Michaels’ at Maidstone Beach (American, Seafood, Steakhouse;$30), Tate’s Bake Shop.



So now that you have some tantalizing options, text the posse and make plans; grab your overnight bag, fill up the car, charge the camera and create some memories this summer!



“There’s an App for that”: Check out TripAdvisor for some insightful advise – just type in your destination and vialoa!

Notice of Eviction: When Some People Can No Longer Live in Your Space

In life we get connected into some friendships and relationships that are wonderful and blissful a first, but over the course of time, things begin to change and we begin to ask ourselves "How did I get into this?" For those of us who seek a way to cope or release ourselves from these connections, the following maybe able to assist you.

The Intent of Their Friendship Begin to Surface. Friends come into your life for a reason, season and a lifetime. Reasons that may be unknown to you; to get close to you, to work with you, to collaborate, to shop, etc. but once the the intent proves to have negative drivers behind it - UNLOCK the doors and let that passenger out. Seasons can be 6 months or 6 years, but the seasonal person can only keep you in that season and become ineffective afterward -- you don't wear Summer clothes in the Winter, because it CAN'T KEEP YOU! Lifetime friends can also require you to serve Temporary Displacement Notices. Not an eviction, but sometimes you just require a level of separation along with maintaining that friendship.

When You Begin to Feel Stagnant or Unmoved Amos 3:3 (KJV) They aren't going in the same direction you are and the connection we have to them keeps us in one place. Unless they agree with the direction you are going and/or are going in the same direction, they are hindering you!

Spiritual Elevation/Charge Being called in different areas of ministry (armor bearer, diaconate, five-fold gifts). Sometimes to access certain arenas and blessings of God, we have to separate ourselves from the very ones that might have carried us there. When Abraham went to sacrifice Isaac, upon arriving at Mt. Moriah (the place of provision), he told the men that helped carry him there to wait until he came back from making the sacrifice. Although, they helped carry him to the place of provision, Abraham had to go alone to fulfill the instructions God had given. Easier said that done - I know - but do it quickly, the longer you wait, the harder it'll be.

Life is Placed in Harm's Way A true friend would sacrifice their own life before your's. So if your "friend" has placed you in harm of being arrested/incarcerated, loosing family or livelihood be it with a lie, a rumor, physical altercation or action -- their lease needs to be pulled and terminated without no early termination fee, this one is on the house.

A friend is one who sticks closer than a brother. Be careful with how loosely and frivilously you give someone this endearing title; incorrect labeling could cost more in the end, ask someone who's had a case os stolen identity. Count up the cost and serve them their bill!

Keep It Saved!

Leah.Christianista