So Harley-Davidson has a director of African American outreach…

Harley also hosted an Iron Elite Black Biker Jam near Uihlein Soccer Park over the weekend, where hundreds of mostly African American riders enjoyed a neo-soul band, food vendors featuring southern style barbecue and fried chicken, and a bike sound system contest.

who decided to throw a party featuring fried chicken? /facepalm

John Comissiong, director of African American outreach marketing, said the party celebrated the influence African Americans have had on shaping motorcycle culture throughout history.

“There’s an opportunity for Harley to expose the brand to African Americans. We’re going to do it in a more meaningful way, as opposed to just shoving the product on them,” Comissiong said.

So it is all about the branding. Was it co-sponsored by Newport or Kool cigarettes? Did they have grape soda and watermelon? What other ways did they come up with to not just shove it on them?

The Harley-Davidson Museum has showcased its African American heritage in recent years with an Iron Elite exhibit, which honors motorcycle culture through the eyes of black riders.

The exhibit features the stories of William Johnson, a New Yorker who in the 1920s became the first African American to own a Harley-Davidson dealership; and Benny Hardy, the custom bike builder who helped create the iconic “Captain America” motorcycle for the movie “Easy Rider.”

Well at least they did something worthwhile. A shout out for Ben Hardy, the man who created the most recognizable chopper in the world!

via Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service.

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