I was invited to the Lansdowne Democratic Committee’s Spring 2023 Meet the Candidates event: Kentucky Derby Garden Party on May 6th, 2023. This event was produced as a fundraiser by my lovely friend, the Democratic candidate for Borough Council, Mrs. Jessica Pointer. The organizers recognized and acknowledged the historical significance of the Kentucky Derby and Black Jockeys. 

In 1875, 13 of 15 jockeys were African-American at the first Kentucky Derby. Between 1890 and 1899, Black jockeys won six Derbies, three Belmont Stakes, and one Preakness Stakes. However, in the early 1900s, Black jockeys disappeared. Jimmy Winkfield was the last African-American to win a Triple Crown race in 1902. By 1904, black riders were banned from many race tracks across the country, including Churchill Downs. 

Black jockeys continued to be systematically barred from the sport by not receiving promotions and opportunities to ride top horses. Eventually, they were not selected at all. From 1921 to 2000, no African American riders were in the Kentucky Derby. Marlon St. Julien became the first black jockey to ride in the Kentucky Derby in 79. Kevin Krigger made a run for the roses in 2013.” Source: Tawana Andrew, Black jockeys and the Kentucky Derby: A history of race and racism

The fashions were fancy and fun; for the Kentucky Derby, you know it’s all about the hat, but also, you just need a stunning dress or outfit that makes you feel fabulous. Florals are a favorite and classic print you can do at the Derby or any Derby-inspired party. All in all, we had a ball, and who knew that politics could be anything but bore? I will be in Louisville, Kentucky, next year for a full-fledged experience. Miss Mahogany Takes the Kentucky Derby 2024’ for sure there will be fashions galore!!!!!

Mrs. & Mr. Jessica & Rome Pointer

Mr. Fred Green and Pretty Date

Best Dressed winner

Valerie and Aisha Al-Muid AKA Miss Mahogany Philly

 Aisha Al-Muid M.Ed. is the columnist behind "Culture Style Influencers". As a youngster she took an interest in high fashion magazines (Vogue, Elle, Harper's Bazaar, Essence) and had an opportunity to intern at Essence magazine in the late 90’s. Aisha spent time working in retail at Barneys’ New York and eventually she opened a retail boutique, Miss Mahogany in West Philadelphia 2014-2016 featuring stylish fashion accessories. The passion for fashion and style  is an intricate part of her life that has driven Aisha to contribute to FunTime magazine as a writer and style influencer since 2015.

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