Throughout February, DC and Warner Bros. Consumer Products will be honouring the artistic expression and contributions of Black comic creators, artists and characters by unveiling a collection of new comics, books and merchandise.
The company will also launch initiatives to support and develop Black creators and inspire a new generation of comic book professionals.
During DC FanDome 2021, The Milestone Initiative was created to identify, develop and mentor aspiring comic book professionals of colour.
“Continuing our rich history of amplifying Black stories and talent, the launch of our Black History Month selection of new comics, books and merch celebrates the Black visionaries amongst us and collectively promotes and supports the telling of stories from the Black perspective,” said Anne Leung DePies, senior vice president and general manager of DC. “Focused on boosting representation of aspiring comic book professionals of colour and introducing them to positive apprenticeship in the art, The Milestone Initiative will pave the way for change by creating a place for individuals to be supported by mentors and connect over a shared love for comics.”
DC kicks off the celebration by releasing a series of new comics and books, as well as new Black History Month products at the DC Shop. In collaboration with Milestone Comics, titles Static Season One, Hardware Season One and Icon and Rocket Season One will celebrate powerful DC Black Super Heroes.
Black creators and characters in comic books will also be spotlighted including I Am Batman, NAOMI Season Two, Nubia and the Amazons and Aquaman among others.
A new Young Adult Graphic Novel, as well as Collected Editions, are also launching, while DC’s subscription platform will feature a free selection of curated titles spotlighting Black DC Super Heroes.
The DC Shop has also revealed designs featuring DC Super Hero and flagship Milestone character Virgil Hawkins, aka Static. Virgil takes front and centre on a collection of items including tees, hoodies and sporting goods highlighting his electromagnetic powers.
Additional merchandise coming to the DC Shop this month features the all-new DC Black History Month logo and key art by artist Alitha Martinez and the return of the popular Juneteenth key art by Milestone co-founder Denys Cowan.
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