6 Iconic Cultural Moments Featuring Eyewear in Black History
Throughout Black history, eyewear has been more than just a functional accessory—it has been a symbol of style, intellect, and power. From political activism to music, film, and sports, glasses and sunglasses have played a role in shaping how Black icons present themselves to the world. This Black History Month, we’re celebrating 6 unforgettable moments where eyewear was front and center in significant cultural milestones across the African American, African, Caribbean and Afro Latin communities.
1. Malcolm X’s Courtroom Glasses (1964)
(Image by Hiller, Herman, photographer World Telegram staff photographer - Library of Congress)
Malcolm X’s signature browline glasses became an emblem of his intellectual rigor and revolutionary ideology. Even during his time in prison and later in courtrooms, his glasses were a defining part of his image, symbolizing knowledge, empowerment, and his transformation into a leading voice of the civil rights movement.
2. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s Signature Glasses as the First African WTO Director-General (2021-Present)
Nigerian economist and trailblazer Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made history in 2021 as the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization. Her signature glasses, always present in high-profile meetings and speeches, have become part of her authoritative and intellectual persona, symbolizing leadership, expertise, and the growing influence of African women in global economics.
3. Spike Lee winning his first Oscar (2019)
(Image by Jordan Strauss/Invasion/ AP)
Spike Lee, award winning filmmaker, screenwriter, producer, actor and author for over 30 years has made eyewear a signature part of his look throughout his career. In 2019, Spike Lee won his first Academy Award for the film adaptation of the screenplay BlacKkKlansman. And of course his frames were a crucial part of his look, matching flawlessly with his suit on the red carpet. From his early days directing Do The Right Thing to his Academy Award win in 2019, his bold glasses have been a staple of his visionary storytelling and cultural impact.
3. Mia Mottley’s Glasses on the Historic Day Barbados Became a Republic (2021)
(Image by AFP/Getty Images)
On November 30, 2021, Prime Minister Mia Mottley stood at the forefront of history as Barbados officially removed the British monarchy and became a republic. Wearing her signature glasses, she delivered a powerful speech that reaffirmed Barbados' sovereignty and national pride. Her eyewear, a staple of her intellectual and authoritative presence, became part of the visual identity of this defining moment for the Caribbean.
4. Dapper Dan’s Luxury Frames in Harlem
(Source: Council of Fashion Designers America)
The legendary designer Dapper Dan redefined fashion by remixing luxury brands into streetwear in Harlem. His signature glasses became an extension of his innovative aesthetic, blending hip-hop culture with high fashion. For over 40 years, he has continuously created historical cultural moments in the fashion industry with exclusive brand partnerships and his style and innovation.
6. Celia Cruz During Her Final Performances (Early 2000s)
(Image by Leon Morris/Redferns)
Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa, was known for her vibrant style, infectious energy, and bold eyewear. In the early 2000s, during some of her final performances before her passing in 2003, she often wore statement sunglasses that became part of her legendary stage presence. Her eyewear, paired with her signature “¡Azúcar!” catchphrase, symbolized her lasting influence on Latin music and Afro-Latino representation. In 2024, Cecilia was also featured on the US Quarter - the first Afro-Latina to do so!
From civil rights leaders to music icons, eyewear has been a defining feature in many historic moments across the Black diaspora. Whether as a fashion statement or a symbol of intellect and rebellion, these glasses and sunglasses tell a story of style, power, and cultural influence.