Harper’s Bazaar’s New Editor-In-Chief Is a Historic Change-Up for Racial Diversity
Harper’s Bazaar has announced that Samira Nasr will be taking the helm as the new editor-in-chief.
The announcement marks a profound milestone for masthead diversity in the company’s history, as Nasr is the first woman of color to hold the position in 135 years.
In an introductory Instagram video, Nasr promised to “give all voices a platform and tell stories that would never have been told.” She continued saying “As the proud daughter of a Lebanese father and Trinidadian mother, my world view is expansive and is anchored in the belief that representation matters.” She also paid special homage to activists and organizers currently fighting for equality, affirming her support for Black Lives Matter.
Samira’s words promise a mandate of equality at a time where many are urging big businesses to be more transparent about workforce diversity. Following the announcement, fans took to social media in praise of the change-up, including Nasr’s friend and fellow equality advocate, Tracee Ellis Ross.
Many of Samira’s friends were supportive of her new role at Haper’s Bazaar and are expecting change for the better.
Samira is one of the kindest, most creative people in the industry. She works with purpose and constantly questions the status quo. Harper’s are very lucky (and smart) to have her! https://t.co/cYnzeWeZrK
— Sinéad Burke (@TheSineadBurke) June 9, 2020
While Nasr’s appointment progresses towards greater Black leadership in the media industry, there’s still a long way to go before large scale publications can be considered truly inclusive. Speaking to The New York Times in 2017, Samira said “We’re supposed to be this colorful industry of creative misfits that come together, yet somehow we’re not that inclusive always”, adding “My world is very colorful and I don’t really see it in fashion or on the runways.”
But with Samira at the helm, we can’t wait to see a more colorful future for Harper’s Bazaar. Congratulations Samira!
