Beverly Johnson: 35 years after her historic Vogue cover

In August 1974 Beverly Johnson became the first black woman to land the coveted cover of American Vogue. However, back then the driven 22-year-old did not realize the social significance of her accomplishment. The Buffalo, New York, native helped lay the stones for the very ground black supermodels like Iman, Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks walk today.

This year marks the 35th anniversary of Johnson's historic Vogue magazine cover. The busy business woman spoke to freelance writer Sylvia A. Harvey about being a fashion icon, the changing image of black women in fashion, Michelle Obama, and loosing her hero: Naomi Sims.

SYLVIA A. HARVEY: How did it feel to see your image, a black woman, on the cover of Vogue?

BEVERLY JOHNSON: It was definitely a highlight of my life. That feeling, and of course the birth of my daughter, was an out of body experience. I was so elated. I remember having the magazine next to my bed that night, and I woke up at least five times throughout the night and looked at the cover to be sure it was real.

HARVEY: At the young age of 22 did you realize how monumental gracing the cover was for black women and its impact on racial barriers?

JOHNSON: I didn't know it would be so profound. I just wanted to be on [the cover] because that's where you had to be to be a top model. I didn't realize the significance and change we were embarking on - black women being accepted. Afterwards I knew.

HARVEY: Has the modeling industry changed, has it shifted in the favor of black women?

JOHNSON: I think black culture has always contributed and set trends, from the Afro to our style of clothes, we're unique. Whether they were acknowledged [by main stream culture] or not is a different story. It's nice to see a group of black models coming up that are present today and represent a wide spectrum; it wasn't that way in the 70's.

HARVEY: Some people argue that the Italian Vogue's "Black Barbie" issue, which is a collector's item, commodified blackness for a profit. What do you think?

JOHNSON: What I took great satisfaction in is the different types of women that have come into the business. They are exotic and unique versus the thin nose and thin lip that was prevalent in the 70's. Models are representing a homogenized racial and culture mixture, look at Chanell Iman [Robinson]. It's beautiful and a blessing.

HARVEY: You say there is a wider spectrum today. Do you recognize a disparity in representation?

JOHNSON: [Black women] still deal with [exclusion] on the runway, in mainstream advertisements, and some magazines. We've come a long way but we still have a ways to go.

HARVEY: I know your daughter, Anansa, is a plus size model. And Jennifer Hudson appeared on the cover of Vogue, what do you think that says about the current concept of beauty? 

JOHNSON: appeared on the cover of Vogue, what do you think that says about the current concept of beauty? I think it's tremendous; she's gorgeous and talented. Women like Jennifer Hudson, Monique, my daughter, and many other women are enriching the concept of beauty. They are embracing their bodies and curves and selling it. They have opened up a whole market and it's really admirable.

HARVEY: Speaking of appreciating varied beauty types; you're a judge on a new model reality show, 'She's Got the Look.' The show's base is an over-35 modeling competition. How is that going?

JOHNSON: The show is an acknowledgement of so many people in the world that are over 35. We still participate in the market, we're buying products too and it's important to have age appropriate people representing products. With some of the women it's about second chances. They've had long careers and kids. It's a good  feeling [doing the show.]

HARVEY: While your face has graced countless magazine covers you are now the spokeswoman for Ask4tell4, a campaign that educates women about uterine fibroids. Did the high number of black women affected by fibroids inspire your involvement?

JOHNSON: [My involvement came] by accident, people kept asking where I'd been and what was going on in my life. I had terrible uterine fibroids. I thought I was the only one in the world suffering, but then when I found out that countless women were affected, I said 'we have to get out and talk about it.' It's about empowering each other.

HARVEY: Health is important to you. You stay fit, what's your secret and what suggestions do you have for women?

JOHNSON: I got lucky. I have a passion for golf and contrary to some beliefs it's very athletic. I play everyday when I can. When the gym wears thin or you're tired of the [personal] trainer you have something that gets you up and moving. My daughter is a part of a group of women that walk together.

HARVEY: What about diet, what kinds of foods you eat?

JOHNSON: [Diet] doesn't have to be strict. Some are unrealistic. I can be disciplined. I don't want to deprive myself but I don't want to disrespect my body either. It's about balance.

HARVEY: When you think of your career Naomi Sims was a hero to you and her untimely death comes as you commemorate your 35-year anniversary. What did her presence and accomplishments mean to you?

JOHNSON: Naomi [Sims] was a remarkable woman, a pioneer. She's responsible for my career. It's so sad to be loosing someone so significant at this time. When I made the cover, Naomi congratulated me and told me she was behind me. She supported me and guided me. It's something that I pass on when I see Naomi, Iman, Tyra, or other models. Naomi [Sims] was [the epitome] of giving. She reminds me to give back and be the best that I can.

HARVEY: Speaking of inspirational women, what are your thoughts on our first lady, Michelle Obama? How is she contributing to the concept of black women and identity?

JOHNSON: Every time we see her it just acknowledges and confirms everything we knew all along: that we're beautiful, graceful, intelligent, and here to say. It confirms that [black women] are here to stay.