About Us
The Black Improper is Boston's ultimate urban networking tool. TBI stands at the intersection of blackness and queerness and answer's the long old question: "Boston has black folk?" This platform is committed to making it easier than ever for these communities to discover events, stay informed, and amplify art that speaks to our identity.
Our Mission
The mission of The Black Improper is to empower the Black and/or Queer/Trans BIPOC communities of New England through connection, education, and media. By building a network of BIPOC artists, entrepreneurs, activists, and creatives, we will produce a vibrant and essential ecosystem that educates and enlightens our community for generations. This outcome will perpetuate a positive view of Black/Queer/Trans/BIPOC cultures, creating healthy values for members of these communities.
Values + Philosophy
Values:
Community Empowerment + Social Justice + Integrity + Partnership + Education & Equity
Our philosophy is that connection and education will directly create an environment that enriches and livens the Black communities of Boston. We're stronger together so building networks is the first step to building black economy, black visibility, and thriving black societies.
About the Editor
Kenyan James
Kenyan James is an experience conceptualist, journalist, Ballroom statement, and activist dedicated to bridging the gaps between art, education, and health in the Black-queer community. Known within the community as Chandelier Ebony and Boston's Fresh Prince. Raised by his loving Mother Elizabeth James, and mentored by Amir Dixon & Tarik Spriggs, Kenyan brings over 13 years of first hand experience to his role as Editor-in-Chief of The Black Improper.
With an expansive background in safe sex and HIV prevention education and community & Ballroom organizing in Boston, Kenyan has managed to establish his presence as a community voice, activist, and leader. From hosting Boston GLASS's largest trendsetting Kiki Ball to date—"Ain't Too Proud to PrEP" in 2018, & "In Living Color" Boston's first Mixture Ball in 2024 (alongside PrideXtended and Chastity's Consulting) —to his extensive advocacy work with Whittier Street Health Center and Fenway Health, Kenyan has built a career on the belief that connection is a vital necessity.
Using a Journalism certificate from Columbia University and an Event Planning certification from the New York Institute of Art and Design, Kenyan plans to position The Black Improper as the ultimate networking tool for the Black and black-queer diaspora to find their people, their platform, and their power.