“The questions which one asks oneself begin, at last, to illuminate the world, and becomes one’s key to the experience of others. One can only face in others what one can face in oneself. This confrontation depends the measure of our wisdom and compassion. This energy is all that one finds in the rubble of vanished civilizations, and the only hope for ours.” 

— James Baldwin “Nobody Knows My Name”

This year’s Native Son 101 List is a testament to the brilliance, resilience, and innovation of the Black queer community. We often use the phrase: “We are our Ancestors’ wildest dreams.” And it’s true. But not only are we their dreams, we are also their manifestation, their answered prayers, and their legacy. 

Because of our Ancestors fearlessness, sacrifice, and indomitable spirits, we are able to live more liberated, authentic, and full lives. We live in gratitude to Alain LeRoy Locke, James Baldwin, Bayard Rustin, Marlon Riggs, Essex Hemphill, Joseph Beam, Alvin Ailey, Willi Smith, Paul Winfield, Sylvester, E. Lynn Harris, A. Cornelius Baker, Craig G. Harris, and the thousands of other Black gay, queer, and gender-nonconforming men who came before us. Because of them, we exist. We are living in their overflow. 

In these dark, unpredictable, and challenging times, Black queer men are boundlessly using their imaginations, talents, and dreams to break through the noise, crash through the glass ceilings, and speak truth to power loudly, boldly, and without apology. They remind us of the power and importance of our voice, visibility, and representation in this world.

The Native Son 101 List Class of 2025 is dedicated to the visionaries, dreamers, and doers whose achievements in this year are unmatched, unparalleled, and unprecedented. 

Meet The Waymakers. These authors, educators, media mavericks, artists, fashion stylists, actors, influencers, entrepreneurs, creators, singers, corporate leaders, and activists refused to be erased, quieted, or eradicated. No, not us. We actually doubled down on Black Queer Excellence, showed up and showed out louder and prouder than ever, reminding the world that we matter and that we are The Culture. And we did it all with unabashed Black Boy Joy!

Please join us in celebrating the Native Son 101 List Class of 2025 for their dedication, rigor, and vision. Their commitment to their craft, creativity, and contributions create more space for us all and for the future generations of Black queer men. Our stories, history, and archives matter.

Thank you to the Native Son 101 Team who worked long and hard to curate, research, write, edit, illustrate, plan, promote, and produce this epic list of innovators, influencers, and intellects. 

Illustrations: Adrian Armstrong 
Words: Joshua Mackey
Editor: Treye Green

Love + Light, 
Emil Wilbekin
Founder and CEO
Native Son