Merriam-Webster defines a pioneer as someone who blazes a trail for others. Trailblazers are important because they show the rest of us where we can reach, where we can exist. The problem is that there are only a few pioneers in the group. So when they're found, it's beneficial for the rest of us to make sure they're seen, that they're there. Are known.That's why I'm honored to be a part of it. motor trendcelebrates Black History Month and focuses on individuals who stood up to make a difference.
From the beginning, an important part of the black experience in America has been about barriers. The enduring effects of slavery and racial segregation have traumatized Black people to be skeptical and wary of their invisible places. When black people see a space dominated by white culture, whether it's industry, sports, art, or subculture, they suspect that if they try to enter that space, they'll be kicked out. In many cases, those suspicions are true. The same goes for the automotive field and motorsports. If you don't believe me, consider this:
F1 is 74 years old and has only had two black drivers throughout its history. He is one of fewer than 25 black drivers in NASCAR's 76-year history. There are only four active black drivers in NASCAR's top series, and only one of those is in the top-level Cup Series.Indy car is 119 years old, However, only two black drivers have competed in the Indy 500 in over a century. This isn't just happening in motorsport. If you look at the history of most major automakers, there have been relatively few black people in positions of power.
That's why throughout this month you'll meet some special pioneers who are changing the circuit and the industry. You'll meet Miles Rowe in the photo above. He was the first black driver to win an American open-wheel racing series and is on track to compete in the Indy 500 for the first time in over 20 years.
You can also learn about Chris Harris (pictured), founder of the African American Automobile Association. Harris has dedicated his life to educating black youth about all that motorsports and the automotive industry have to offer.
Motorcycle drag and open-wheel racer Destany Spurlock, pictured above, shares her story of competing and succeeding as an African American woman in a motorsport that is dominated by white men. Her confidence and her drive to push herself is contagious. She is also the owner of her NHRA team and runs two other businesses on her own. I was lucky enough to have the time to talk with her about her experiences as a double minority and how she stays focused on winning and not on other people's opinions.
But given that our Black History Month theme is to spotlight pioneers, I'd like to start with someone here. motor trend.If you are an enthusiastic person, there is a chance hot rod Readers may be familiar with KJ Jones. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Jones has decades of experience as a racer and builder.
Jones had a special affinity for late model Mustangs. 5.0 MUSTANG & SUPER FORD MAGAZINE. Currently, he is the next senior editor. hot rodyou can regularly see him at events such as the Hot Rod Power Tour and Hot Rod Drag Week.
Jones is MotorTrend Group's first African-American staff writer. Through his bylined articles, every event he attends, and every video he hosts, KJ Jones shows the world that car enthusiasts come in all colors. Jones continues to inspire through all his contributions. hot rod and motor trendWe are honored to have worked with him on these features.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the editors and communications team. motor trend Thank you for your support in this endeavor. I also want to give a special shout out to Senior Editor Kristen Lee. Because I researched the same format she used for her wonderful celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander Cultural Heritage Month. Be sure to check out these features as well!
By giving KJ Jones and I the opportunity to tell the stories of the remarkable people you'll be reading about this month, we hope to bring more diversity and inclusion to the auto industry. Stay tuned for great coverage of exciting people.
