Alright, this needs to be said: It’s finally time to put some respect on the Midwest! Damn, I needed to get that off my chest.
As someone who spent more than half their life steeped in the richness of Middle America, Ohio to be exact, I don’t see a better time than now to finally set the record straight––please hold all stale memes and trite commentary until the end of the program.
Now, I don’t want this to come off as a defensive rant on behalf of the Heartland, while admittedly, there might be hints of that sprinkled throughout. It’s just ironic how most of the antiquated stereotypes surrounding the region are perpetuated by those who haven’t had the pleasure of crossing Midwestern state lines.
So, let me satisfy some of your burning inquiries before we go further. Yes, we have to resist the urge to soft smile at everyone when I pass them on the street. No, most of us did not grow up on a farm––we just lived next to one. Yes, we put chili on spaghetti noodles, and truthfully, it’s not that bad once you give it a shot. Yet, with our soil comprised of persistence, enduring patience, and a bit of fresh manure, Midwest culture is flourishing now more than ever.
Thinking about it more, I wouldn’t consider my constant touting of the Midwest as a “defense” per se. Instead, I view it as a championing of all the exciting energy arising from the area, some of which may not always be recognized.
Exhibit A: Midwest Kids, an inspiring streetwear brand actively bolstering the case for Ohio and its surrounding areas.
As the brainchild of Darryl Brown, a former Northern Ohio railroad engineer turned seasoned stylist turned founder of an eponymous workwear label, Midwest Kids represents the unwavering spirit of his home, a reflection of potential and possibility. Reimagining that true blue-collar essence Brown believes anyone can relate to, the budding brand is laying preconceived notions to rest, offering a refreshed perspective as the region blossoms.
“‘At Midwest Kids, we strive to give recognition where it's due,” the Toledo native shares. “Our goal is to create a lasting impact that spans generations, crafting something that is attainable and resonates with everyone.”
From helping actualize the sartorial dreams of local teens to supporting an innumerable amount of grassroots initiatives across the state, the brand’s mission gives “Midwest Nice” a whole new meaning by diligently working to elevate minority voices and uplift communities that make up the fabric of our culture.
Always focused on handing out some much-deserved flowers where they’re due, Midwest Kids has partnered with Walmart, the iconic retail store backed by many Midwest residents, for a limited edition collection celebrating Black History Month. The honorary capsule manifests as an ode to the tireless efforts of resolute figures who have paved a prosperous path for young Black creatives to exist in spaces previously deemed unfathomable.
Featuring five staple pieces boasting the Midwest Kids insignia, the featured “Planting Seeds and Giving Flowers Daily” capsule comes to life as part of Walmart’s “Black & Unlimited” program. As Black and minority creators continue to shift the paradigm, programs like these offer dedicated platforms committed to amplifying the boundless potential of innovative luminaries as they actualize a renaissance of unique thought.
Available in hundreds of select Walmart locations and restocked on Walmart.com, the celebratory collection is an homage to those choosing to make a difference. Whether we’re reminiscing on the pioneers of the past, appreciating the changemakers of today, or embracing the visionaries of the future, each group meets across generational lines through their shared goals of unity and progression––a common thread Midwest Kids hopes to continue strengthening moving forward.
And if that isn’t enough to inspire a road trip straight into The Heart of the Nation, NTWRK, Gen-Z’s QVC, is raffling off exclusive pieces from the collection only available for contest winners. With contestants already rushing to the NTWRK app vying for their chance to win, a few lucky participants will receive a custom-designed Midwest Kids varsity jacket and bucket hat from the latest drop.
It’s 2024, so let’s make sure we’re all clear. The Midwest is not the backwoods nor a wasteland, and tractors are not the ideal form of transportation…typically. We exist in the now, and, thanks to brands like Midwest Kids, we have proven that we’re doing our part in elevating culture.
With raffle winners declared on Thursday, January 18 at 7 PM ET during a special NTWRK episode, we Midwest kids are showing a little more zeal than most would have initially assumed.
So carry on with all your perceived views and senseless quips, but just know we are quite content over here with our scenic corn fields and mid-market professional sports teams. The Midwest is finally having its moment; no one can take that away from us––eat your heart out, Big City, USA.
Head over to the NTWRK app to learn more.
