Three local women have worked together to create a bracelet that signifies solidarity with the black community, and half the proceeds are going toward a local program to support Daviess County residents in need.
The idea and design originated with Courtney Carter, who reached out to Jackie Sue Smith for aid. Smith is the owner of Jackie Blue Handmade and has been making jewelry for about 10 years. Allyson Sanders chose the H.L. Neblett Center as the recipient for the donation of 50% of sales.
The donation to the Neblett Center will more specifically go to Western Academy — a Saturday programming for black males to achieve and succeed in school and in adulthood. This pilot program is a collaborative effort with Owensboro Public Schools.
The Neblett serves as Daviess County’s center of cultural development and enhancement while serving people who live within the low-income and disadvantaged areas.
“The Solidarity bracelet” features matte black onyx beads and one multi-iridescent bead that represents all races standing in solidarity with the black community.
“Our hope is that all who choose to wear this are reminded to be supportive, openminded and committed to learning from and loving your black brothers and sisters,” the creators wrote on the product website.
Olga McKissic, executive director of the Neblett Center, said she appreciates the work.
“We have been standing strong since 1936, and we want the community to know us, and know the work that we do. And by her doing this, this is going to open up many people’s eyes to the Neblett Center,” McKissic said. “She could have selected anyone, but she selected us and I just can’t tell you how much we appreciate it.”
Sanders, who serves on the Western Academy strategic planning board, said she challenges big business to get involved.
“I’m really hoping this becomes a challenge,” she said. “Jackie, she is one person — I would love to see some of our big industry partners out there like U.S. Bank, our big factories, I would love to see them match what she’s doing.”
The bracelet launched Friday, and Smith said 50 have already been sold. Smith, who uses her handcrafted jewelry as a voice for change and understanding, said she was honored to promote a good cause.
“My hope is that when people wear it, they’re reminded to stand in solidarity with our black community, and hopefully it’s a reminder to listen and to learn,” she said. “… I was thrilled and honored to be a part of it, in helping to bring awareness to not only black lives but also to the Neblett Center. I wanted it to make a change, not just something pretty to look at.”
Each bracelet is made to order, and normal processing time is up to 14 days. To place an order or to find more info, visit the product page here.
