Black love, especially Black romantic love, is a powerful celebration of resilience, joy and connection that transcends the hardships faced by our communities. It’s a beautiful tapestry woven from shared history, culture and experiences that affirm our existence and strength.
For our people, showcasing Black love—including the LGBT+ community—serves as a vital reminder that love is multifaceted and deserving of visibility. It highlights the importance of representation, allowing us to see ourselves in the stories and relationships that shape all our narratives that challenge stereotypes, dismantle societal norms and inspire future generations to embrace their identities unapologetically.
In a world that often tries to erase us, celebrating all forms of Black love is not just an act of defiance; it’s a way to honor our truth and foster a sense of belonging for everyone within the spectrum of our rich, diverse identities.
Meet the nine couples gracing EBONY’s February 2025 Love In Color Issue, captured by photographer Tayo Kuku Jr.
Ashley & Anthony
Age: 34 and 36
Relationship status: Married
Anthony Prince, film director and photographer, and Ashley Cimone Leslie, owner of Ashya, a bag brand, didn’t start with some grand, rom-com worthy moment. It was a vibe, a feeling, an energy that pulled them together across a crowded room during Fashion’s Night Out. The creatives are usually the best dress couple in the room, and they have unique fashion senses that light up any room they step foot in.
“I literally saw her nose ring twinkling,” Anthony recalled, laughing. “She was just glowing, the happiest person in the room. I told my friend, ‘Yeah, I gotta talk to her.’” And just like that, a decade-long journey of love, partnership and growth began.
For them, Black love isn’t just about romance—it’s about showing up for each other in every way. “Love is a verb,” Ashley said, emphasizing that it’s about action, not just words. She expresses her love through unwavering support, making sure Anthony feels seen and uplifted in all aspects of his life.
And Anthony? He listens; he takes notes—literally. “She’ll be scrolling online, saying, ‘Ooh, I wish I had this,’ and I’m like, ‘Noted,’” he said. “Then, boom—birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, it’s hers.” But beyond gifts, he holds it down in everyday ways, calling himself “Mr. Clean” for the way he keeps their home in order. “I book the doctor’s appointments, fold the clothes—whatever she needs, I got her.”
To them, Black love in full color is all about the details—the unspoken care, the small moments, the inside jokes, and even the things you won’t see in movies. “Like her taking out my ingrown hairs,” Anthony joked. “Where’s that representation in Black love stories?” Ashley agreed, “Love isn’t just the big moments—it’s in the day-to-day, in the way we show up for each other, over and over again.” And after 10 years, they’re still showing up, still growing, still loving—loud, proud, and in full color.
Lellies & Kris
Ages: 29 and 36
Relationship status: Partners
In a lively exchange filled with laughter, Lellies Santiago, from North New Jersey, and Kris Kasanova, from Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, recounted the surprising spark that ignited their relationship. “We met at a friend’s birthday party, and honestly, it felt like the worst first meeting ever because Kas [Kris] was totally lit,” Lellies recalled with a chuckle, reminiscing about the chaos of that night. Kris added, “I was trying to play matchmaker for my dude, but I ended up just acting a fool instead!” Despite the rocky start, their ability to navigate the awkwardness ultimately led to Kris sliding into Lellies’ DMs and asking her out. “I was intrigued from jump,” Kris confessed, flashing a charming grin, while Lellies playfully remarked, “He knew how to impress me with food, so I was like, ‘Okay, he can feed me!’”
Their first date turned out to be an unforgettable adventure that took them from enjoying Miss Lily’s delicious cuisine to a lively rock show where Kris introduced Lellies to his industry connections. “It was wild! Meeting artists backstage and vibing out in the studio with Jerry Wonder? Talk about a vibe check!” Lellies exclaimed, reflecting on the spontaneity that characterized their time together.
Kris noted how easy it was to connect with Lellies, saying, “What I loved was how down she was for whatever.” The laughter that echoed through their conversation made it clear that their chemistry was undeniable. As they playfully declared, “the rest was history,” it became evident that sometimes the most chaotic beginnings can pave the way for something truly special.
It’s apparent that Lellies and Kris unfolding story is not just redefining their love but also reshaping the narrative of Black love in a world that often distorts it. “To me, Black love is like this unshakeable force,” Lellies expressed passionately, her eyes shining with conviction. “It’s that raw, unapologetic vibe you see when a Black couple radiates joy together. It’s resilient, built on overcoming personal traumas and finding beauty in unexpected places.”
Kris nodded in agreement, adding, “Exactly! It’s about creating a safe space for each other, like when we kick back with some seafood and a terrible movie, just to laugh it off together. It’s more than romance; it’s a bond that carries us through life’s chaos.” Their love story serves as a reminder that Black love is not just about struggle but also a celebration of joy, authenticity and resilience, beautifully colored by their unique experiences together.
Aïssata & Ali
Age: 31 and 30
Relationship status: Married
Ali Camara and Aïssata Diallo’s love story is a testament to the magic of Black love—unapologetic, deeply rooted and full of intentionality. The couple, now based in Atlanta but forever repping the Bronx, first crossed paths at a wedding proposal, though their initial encounter wasn’t exactly a fairytale moment.
“He was just giving weird vibes,” Aïssata admitted with a laugh, recalling the moment. Ali approached her table asking for a napkin, only for her to mistakenly offer him a handshake instead. “I was like, ew, no napkin?” Ali joked, adding that despite the awkward first impression, it didn’t take long for their connection to flourish. And while Aïssata playfully insisted she didn’t immediately fall for him, Ali confidently reminded her, “Then you slid in my DMs.”
For Ali, Black love is about overcoming obstacles that have historically tried to keep Black couples from thriving. “Especially in America, the system crashes down on our relationships, on our economics, on everything,” he explained. “And for us to still find love? That’s the most powerful thing.” She echoed the sentiment, describing Black love as “powerful, resilient and carrying legacy.” Their love is not just about them—it’s a reflection of something bigger, something historical, something sacred. “It’s holy,” Ali added. “It’s us.”
The way they show up for each other in love is both grand and intimate. Ali’s love language is protection—praying over Aïssata, leading spiritually, ensuring she always feels safe. “Since I met her, she believed in me and constantly tells me I can do better,” he said.
Aïssata, on the other hand, finds joy in the little things. “He doesn’t even know, but when we used to live in an apartment, I would send the elevator back down for him so he wouldn’t have to wait,” she shared. Love, in all its color, is in the details—the unspoken gestures, the understanding glances, the way they walk into a room together, knowing they belong. “People see us, and they know something’s different,” Ali said. “Black love at its highest level is unapologetic.” And that is the real flex.
Doquan & Edvin
Age: 34 and 32
Relationship status: Partners
For two gay Black Jamaican men, their love is always in color! Black love is a choice. A choice that Edvin Thompson Jamacia-born designer and Doquan Hines New York native and fitness and fashion guru makes every single day with intention and joy. The couple, who first connected on social media, has built a relationship rooted in authenticity, communication and unwavering support.
“Limitless,” Doquan said when asked to define Black love. “Transformative,” Edvin added. Their love isn’t just about romance; it’s about showing up, sharing dreams, and making time for each other despite life’s demands. “Spending time together is so important, especially when life gets busy,” Doquan emphasized. The pair work together on Edvin’s clothing brand Theophilio, which is rooted in color and love for their heritage. However, love extends beyond home—it’s experienced in new places and adventures, from Palm Heights in Grand Cayman to swimming in Mexico’s hidden caves.
But love isn’t just about the highs; it’s about navigating challenges with grace. Their secret? “Communicate, communicate, communicate,” Doquan stressed. “Sit down, have a conversation, and be respectful.” In a world where Black love is often misrepresented, they make a point to be intentional about how they love. “We show our love in a very honest way,” Edvin shared. Whether it be in person or on social media, the two aren’t afraid to loudly show their love for one another, despite the world and some people from their heritage not understanding. They do so effortlessly and look good while doing so.
At its core, their relationship is about presence and energy—feeling seen, supported and celebrated. “Black love is magical,” Edvin declared. “Beautiful,” Doquan added. And as they proudly proclaim, “And we are here with EBONY,” it’s clear their love is both—a testament to the power and beauty of choosing each other every single day.
Asiah & Gerald
Age: 31 and 38
Relationship status: Married
For Gerald and Asiah James Cannon, Black love is more than just romance—it’s a foundation, a movement and a commitment to building something real. “It means everything,” Gerald shared, reflecting on his upbringing and the importance of setting an example. “We need to show that being with your own, growing with your own, is powerful.” For Asiah, it’s about deep connection and shared experience. “Being in love with someone who relates to you on so many levels? That’s a beautiful thing,” she said. “All love is important, but Black love? It’s got a little extra spice.”
Their love story started at Topshop—back when it still existed—and what began as a work connection turned into something deeper. Now, as newlyweds, their relationship is a mix of romance, practicality and everyday acts of service. “Gerald’s love language? Acts of service,” Asiah laughed. “He’s always doing the little things, like steaming my clothes or surprising me with ice cream.”
Gerald added, “And Asiah? She makes sure I’m on top of life—emails, doctor’s appointments, everything. She’s my rock.” Their version of Black love isn’t about the struggle—it’s about intentionally choosing each other, day after day, and putting in the work to build a life together.
But what does love in color mean to them? Gerald kept it simple: “Black people just being. Happy, whole and at peace.” Asiah took it a step further, acknowledging the stereotypes about Black relationships in the media. “People love to show our love as struggle, as if we’re always just surviving something. But Black love isn’t just about making it through—we’re out here thriving, growing and creating legacies,” she said. After 11 years together, they’re not just working through something; they’re working towards something. And that love story is worth telling.
J’nelle & Arthur
Age: 37 and 42
Relationship status: Partners
Once upon a time, a princess from Queens, N.Y., fell for a prince from Nashville, Tenn. And it truly was love at first sight. EBONY’s Executive Director of Editorial J’nelle Agee and her partner, corporate executive Arthur Butler, have been together since meeting at a sorority party in 2023. In March 2025, they’ll welcome their first child.
The couple has let go of the path often expected by others. “Watching my parents, the way that they loved, the way that my grandparents loved, I thought that that was the path that I had to go on,” Butler shared as he was previously married which ended divorce.
In its place, they’ve created a union that is genuinely their own. “Being in a relationship where you feel cared for, and protected, and you feel like the person who you’re with is just supposed to be your person,” Agee says of the strength of their connection. The couple also reflected on societal norms and following the timelines of their peers. “We’re about to have a baby, but our definition of Black love is what makes us feel comfortable and what we enjoy doing and enjoying each other’s company together,” Agee said.
Butler gets even more granular, according to his definition. “Black love to me is really sacrifice without regret,” he declared. “It’s also J’nelle.”
Communication and honesty are the keys to their love staying alive, as they create a new legacy of Black love that doesn’t follow expected outcomes. Instead, it’s serving them their own happily ever after.
Jannah & Kiyanna
Age: 38 and 35
Relationship status: Married
Fate will always find a way to bring the right people together. Jannah and Kiyanna Handy grew up in the same Brooklyn, N.Y. neighborhood, but didn’t connect until working at a university campus in New Jersey. “We grew up about 600 feet from one another, so we probably met in the cornerstone in a bodega somewhere,” said Kiyanna.
Co-owners of Blk Vintage Market in Brooklyn, these first friends have watched their love blossom over their 13-year relationship, through work and play. “We have both evolved and grown into our adulthood. Being a family, and that being a verb, is showing love through, showing up for one another on a regular basis, acts of care, acts of service and consideration, I think that that’s really important,” she continued.
The reflection the two see within one another also bolsters their love. “The thing I love the most about my partner is that she is a reflection of me in her Blackness in her womanness and boldness. We get to just kiki for a lifetime, and so I love that,” Jannah exclaimed. “We say all the time that we’re equally yoked, and I found somebody who’s just as much of a smart ass as I am, so I love it.”
Now the couple is standing up for love in color in all its forms. “I think about younger me, being a tomboy back in the day and not really seeing a lot of queer representation of Black queer women in fruitful relationships, in marriages and long-term commitments,” Jannah said, “For us, it really became a conscious and intentional choice to be the front and the face of our business, because we know it’s important for how important that representation is.”
Kiyanna concluded, “Black love means everything to us. We descend from Black families. We are raising and creating and cultivating Black families as well. It’s the cornerstone of the Black community, and if we are not looking after one another and intentionally caring for one another in tactile ways, who else is gonna do it?”
Jamila & Ali
Age: 36 and 43
Relationship status: Married
If love is a gamble, Jamila and Ali Wright are its biggest winners. Ali, a Brooklyn native, met his Georgia peach, Jamila Wright, at a mutual friend’s birthday party celebration in Atlantic City, N.J. They nerded out over books, Black facts and the Black Panther party and have been together ever since that fateful night over 10 years ago.
As co-owners of Brooklyn Tea in Brooklyn, N.Y., this couple has brewed up a definition of Black love that speaks to all.
It’s a “declaration that in this crazy world [where] we can often be neglected as people…that we can find each other and we can find solace and protection,” said Jamila. “A need to see his Black joy shine through, to see my joy shine through. There’s a commitment to make that happen.”
Their love is also connected by their history and heritage. “Being with someone who’s so close related to your culture is just really cool,” said Ali.
As they grow in love, so does their appreciation for what each brings to the table. “He’s so curious about the world that we live in and that his perspective isn’t the only one,” Jamila said. “It’s forced me to be more curious and walk this life being less opinionated. I’m grateful for that.”
Along with the understanding that theirs is a love grounded. “Two people going to work, coming home, giving hugs, dancing in the middle of the living room, cooking together, like just regular everyday things together…That might not make for good salacious TV,” Ali shared. “But I think it makes for good solid foundations for family and home.”
S. Princess & Bahir Jessie
Age: 42 and 45
Relationship status: Married
For S. Princess and Bahir Jessie, love began in their formative years. “We were boyfriend and girlfriend early on in high school,” Bahir said. While they went their separate ways for college and the start of adulthood, the Holy Spirit and a trip to Cold Stone Creamery brought them back together.
“I’m walking out [of the store] and [the Holy Spirit] said, ‘No, no, no. Sit right here and face that way.’ I sit down and I start eating my ice cream, and here [S. Princess] comes. I say, ‘Hey, gorgeous.’ And it was the best thing that ever happened to me. We’ve been together ever since.”
Their joint beliefs have built their solid foundation of Black love. “When you’re settled in who you are, and then God sends you what you ask for. And when you’re in a place of being willing to receive it, it is protection,” S. Princess exclaimed. “It is sacred. It is fun. It is struggle. It is understanding. It is rising. I do believe Black love is rising. Black love is solid. And I feel that it is very in fashion.”
The events planner and corporate executive have made it a personal mission to elevate Black love in the most positive light, leaving the negativity and hurtful stereotypes behind. “It’s important to have the appropriate view,” Bahir declared, “growing as a culture is not allowing it to persist and showing all the wonderful things that Black love has to offer, as EBONY is doing.”
S. Princess added, “That’s the whole dope thing about good Black love; you represent for everybody who wants to get some. And I do think it’s possible. You gotta celebrate it.”
