We had the good fortune of connecting with Latrice Monét and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Latrice, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The vision for my business, The Original Cowboy Club (OCC), began when I saw an opportunity to reconnect people to the original essence of the Western Frontier – one filled with people of color, resilient spirits, and a rich cultural heritage. Quite frankly, I didn’t see my people represented in western culture as much as I knew they should be, and unfortunately, I have been treated like an outsider in some of the larger western retail stores. I created the OCC to empower Black and Brown people to move through the world knowing that they’ve always belonged, and with our branded apparel, the OCC family can express their pride and educate others about the original western history of America.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Original Cowboy Club creates an experience for the community to tap into who we are as a people and pay homage to the Black and Brown cowboys and cowgirls – the original heroes, protectors, and workers of the land. Research suggests that while only 1 in 4 cowboys were recorded as Black, there were likely many more whose contributions were not properly documented. Historically, the true number of Black and Brown people was significantly underrepresented to downplay their presence and strength in numbers, avoid additional taxation (particularly during slavery), and craft a narrative centered on European superiority. There is an African proverb which says, “Until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter.” So until we reclaim our history and tell our collective stories, the white-washed version of cowboys in the 1800s will persist, and that’s not something I can just let slide. The OCC is is reigniting a living history while fostering a sense of community, making space on the frontier of life for everyone. Inclusivity and shared experiences are at the heart the Original Cowboy Club. Be sure to grab a tee and join us at our next event!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d start with a day exploring downtown, with a stop at The Underground, since the parties there are always a good time! We’d dive into the city’s culture with a visit to the Atlanta Botanical Garden, lunch at Ponce City Market, and an afternoon at the Atlanta History Center, followed by drinks at The Roof. Being a fan of both art and nature, I’d definitely take them to the High Museum of Art, followed by lunch at 26 Thai, and an afternoon strolling through Piedmont Park and the BeltLine. We’d enjoy dinner at Poor Calvin’s afterward. A trip to Atlanta wouldn’t be complete without exploring Little Five Points and Krog Street Market, with lunch at Pizza Verdura Sincera and dinner at Barcelona Wine Bar. We’d also visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, grab lunch at Slutty Vegan, and hike to the Bamboo Forest before catching a show at The Tabernacle. On the final day, we’d shop at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, dine at Carmel, and take some time to relax before getting back to everyday life.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Everything I have in life is a blessing from God, and I am deeply grateful to my parents for instilling in me a strong spiritual foundation that continues to guide me every day. I also want to acknowledge one of my best friends, Amanda Nesbitt, who nominated me for this opportunity. She’s so supportive, and she’s been in my corner since we were kids.

Website: https://Lmonet444.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lmonet444

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latrice-wilson/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LMONET444

Image Credits
Ty Pleas, Cedric Douglas, Creative Mindz Media, and Latrice Monét

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