GQ forgets to mention first African-American model cover

by guest contributor Wayne Boothe

Anyone pick up the latest issue of GQ Magazine? The letters to the editor page in this month’s issue was interesting (Bill Clinton, Kanye West, Daniel Craig cover).

Recently, GQ magazine published a special issue celebrating their 50th anniversary and marking fifty years of change in the world of men’s style and culture.

Several readers wrote to the magazine in response to an omission, wondering why one man’s story was not mentioned. In November 1979, Renauld White was the first African-American model to appear on the cover of GQ magazine (though Swiss-born Urs Althaus appeared on the cover in 1977).

While the anniversary issue of GQ magazine does briefly acknowledge Sammy Davis Jr. as the first black celebrity to grace the cover and does include other celebrities of color–from Omar Sharif to Jackie Chan–the stories of Renauld White and Urs Althaus were not included. Where were they? Were they ignored–or forgotten?

The editors decided to respond to the letters and included a conversation they had with Renauld White in which they admit to messing up. I’d say that’s a fair assessment; good for them for admitting their mistake. Sexuality, the arts, sports, technology and more were discussed in the anniversary issue, as well as how these concerns have affected men’s lifestyles over the last 50 Years. GQ magazine missed an opportunity to discuss aspects of cultural diversity in the world of style–including the cultural diversity of those working in the industry.

I would not accuse GQ magazine of being completely color blind as many people of color have appeared on the cover over the years and models of different color are included in the columns and features of their magazine. However, I do wonder if they’re at all aware of the cultural makeup of their readership.

Throughout the article and conversation with Mr. White pride and belonging was brought up more than once. This subscriber (and person of color) loves the “look sharp/live smart” lifestyle, takes pride in how he chooses to represent himself in his world, and appreciates the style of others around him.

GQ Magazine, do you know that I’m out here?