About Us
Black Earth United
We are born from the rich soil of our heritage.
We are joining together as Black women artists, healers, designers, mothers, educators and activists to ignite a space where nature is not just a backdrop but the very essence of our creative expression. Our mission is to refine the narrative of Black connection to the outdoors through regenerative apparel and cultural storytelling. Rooted in community and pride, we honor our ancestral ties to nature and affirm the outdoors as a space of self-liberation. Our brand celebrates the interconnectedness between people and nature, grounded in stillness, ritual, and breath as essential parts of our design process. Our vision is to cultivate knowledge and creativity that centers the Black American experience in the outdoors. Through culturally inspired clothing and accessories, Black Earth United celebrates the rich diversity of Black people's self-expression, honoring our shared connection to nature.
Who we are
Black Earth United is a regenerative fashion and cultural storytelling enterprise based in Portland, Oregon.
We create limited edition apparel while hosting immersive events that celebrate cultural heritage, earth consciousness, and outdoor appreciation.
MEET THE FOUNDER
Jocelyn Rice is a mother and the interdisciplinary creative behind Black Earth United. Her clothing blends Black American cultural expressions, shaped by the struggle for liberation in the face of enslavement in North America, with designs rooted in the earth’s evolution and Diasporic history. Her garments have been featured in Vogue and Backpacker Magazine, sold at REI, and included in the permanent collection at the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Art in Brooklyn. Jocelyn honors our ancestors' spirits through the clothing we wear, reminding us of our deep responsibility to our past, present, and future, and of our connection to Mother Nature.
FIELD THEORY LAUNCH PARTY
Black Earth United invites you to an evening where fashion, identity, creativity, and community collide.
Anisa Marie
Anisa Marie is a fourth-generation Portland, Oregonian, entrepreneur, creative, and storyteller.
Anisa Marie
Anisa Marie is a fourth-generation Portland, Oregonian, entrepreneur, creative, and storyteller.
Drea Johnson
Dre Johnson (they/she) is a Portland-based Queer Blatinx designer, multidisciplinary artist, and founder of Hidden Opulence Design House.
Drea Johnson
Dre Johnson (they/she) is a Portland-based Queer Blatinx designer, multidisciplinary artist, and founder of Hidden Opulence Design House.
Dezarae Boyd-France
Portland-based seamstress, stylist, luxury lifestyle creator, and Executive Director of Family SkillBuilders.
Dezarae Boyd-France
Portland-based seamstress, stylist, luxury lifestyle creator, and Executive Director of Family SkillBuilders.
