Once again mainstream media has rejected an opportunity for diversity in the fashion community. The latest comes from Condé Nast’s rejection of Cameroonian photographer, Mario Epaya’s, draft of a Vogue Africa project he was proposing to Condé Nast. He recently announced the rejection on his Facebook page.

With consumers wanting to find more identifiable representation in the glossy magazines they read, why would Condé Nast reject an oppportunity to make a bold statement and help to redefine the standard of beauty? How could they state in the header on their website,

“Provocative, influential, and award winning content. Across brand. Across platforms. Across continents.”

yet reject the opportunity to actually BE “Provocative, influential, and award winning content. Across brand. Across platforms. Across continents.” Mainstream media tends to restrict the amount of minorities that are given the elusive ability to become a household name in this underrepresented demographic. A few months ago I wrote an article about Breaking Barriers which focused on the need for more real women bodies on the catwalks. Crystal Renn has become a household name, but there are countless other nameless plus size models out there who deserve the same recognition she has garnered.

This latest rejection by Condé Nast simply attests to the fashion world’s immobility when it comes to diversity. It will fragment off a tiny sliver in an effort to silence the voices of those who demand a change because it is their consumer dollars that keep these corporations afloat. It’s time to embrace all forms of beauty. Sound off and tell us what you think about Condé Nast’s decision and whether or not you would pick up a copy of one of these magazines if they were available at your local newstand.

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