The Aesthetic of Cool: Historical Expressions of Resilience
When we think about Martin Luther King Jr., the word "cool" might not come to mind immediately. But step back and observe his presence—the sharp suits, the deliberate cadence, the unshakeable confidence. MLK embodied an aesthetic that wasn’t just about looking good; it was about representing dignity, power, and an undeniable connection to the people he served.
That same energy runs through the veins of cultural icons like Barack Obama, Langston Hughes, Malcolm X, and James Baldwin. Each of them, in their own way, leveraged the aesthetic of cool to communicate deeper truths. Baldwin, for example, stood as a poetic intellectual, blending sharp words with an even sharper sense of self. Whether seated in front of a typewriter, delivering an interview, or photographed with a daring stare, Baldwin’s aura said, I know who I am, and I will not apologize for it.
The coolness of these figures wasn’t shallow or performative—it was rooted in authenticity and conviction. Their swag wasn’t just about their appearance but about how they carried themselves. Whether Obama fist-bumping Michelle, Langston Hughes capturing the rhythm of Black life in poetry, Malcolm X delivering speeches in his signature glasses, or Baldwin challenging systems of power with piercing insight, their aesthetic reflected their mission.
Today, this legacy continues through memes and cultural remixes that reimagine these icons. MLK rocking a durag in a viral meme doesn’t diminish his legacy; it brings it closer to the next generation, communicating that he isn’t just a historical figure… he’s a symbol of resilience, strength, and inspiration.
But here’s the contradiction: While society reveres the “cool” of a grown Black man, it often criminalizes the journey of a Black boy as he searches for his. Black boys are constantly negotiating their identity, setting boundaries, and making sense of who they are. Their “cool” is evidence of that exploration. It looks like sagging their pants, putting their hoods over their heads, walking carefully so they don’t crease their sneakers. Yet, what is celebrated in the polished confidence of a Black man is often met with suspicion or criticism in the raw, unfiltered expression of a Black boy.
So what does this mean for next gen ministry? Ery’ thing.
Reimagining Ministry
The aesthetic of cool teaches us that ministry isn’t just about preaching sermons or planning programs—it’s about embodying a message. It’s about leaders who are relatable, aspirational, and authentic. Gen Z and Gen Alpha don’t just want to hear the gospel; they want to see it in action. They’re drawn to leaders who reflect both the hope of heaven and the reality of walking through earth’s struggles. The “cool aesthetic” isn’t just about style—it’s about the way students see themselves and how they engage with the world. The aesthetic of cool, helps us to reimagine how we engage with students.
MLK and Baldwin understood that their presence mattered. They didn’t show up halfheartedly because they knew their appearance spoke before they did. As next gen leaders, how you show up spiritually, emotionally, and physically—sets the tone for your ministry, and we’re not just talking about style.
Imagine a young Martin Luther King Jr. sitting quietly in the back of your youth ministry, wearing his Sunday best. Or a young Malcolm X, fiery and full of questions, challenging everything you say. Maybe James Baldwin is there, too, scribbling in a notebook, his mind churning with ideas that feel too deep for the moment. You might even miss Langston Hughes, a shy creative who keeps to himself but writes poetry that would shake the world.
These historical figures, known for their “cool” confidence and powerful presence, were likely not always understood by the people around them. Many young leaders carry extraordinary potential beneath the surface. As next-gen leaders, we must look beyond appearances to nurture their gifts, provide mentorship, and create space for their creativity to flourish- especially for Black boys.
Discipling Black Boys
When discipling Black boys, this theoretical idea of “cool” is critical. Too often, they are judged by their style, their questions, or their confidence, rather than seen for their immense potential. The “cool aesthetic” often reflects more than surface-level swag—it’s a shield, a signal of creativity, a form of expression, a cry to be seen and understood.
Discipling Black boys means:
Seeing the leader within. Like MLK, they might already have the seeds of spiritual leadership at 19—or even younger. Speak to the leader in them, not the stereotypes projected onto them.
Celebrating their gifts. Whether through poetry, art, music, or intellect, affirm that their creativity is a reflection of God’s image. Use their gifts to help them embrace their worship expression.
Walking with them through struggle. Baldwin’s struggles with identity and faith mirror the challenges many Black boys face today. Create spaces where they can process without judgment.
The “cool aesthetic” is often a sign of someone who thinks deeply, dreams boldly, and, with the right support, could transform the world. Let’s ensure today’s students know that God can use them as they are, right now, to make an impact. MLK was ordained at 19, Hughes wrote his first poem at 13, Baldwin started his first novel at 19- and your students are making history, today.
As a leader, your challenge is to engage the cool—not dismiss it. The aesthetic of cool isn’t rebellion; it’s identity in formation. Your role is to build trust, affirm their expression, and later, help them see how their gifts and confidence can be used in worship.
