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Chicago, IL (PRWEB) September 28, 2004 -- Lavenderpop Greeting Cards are a line of cards aimed at Black lesbian, gay, bi, and trans (LGBT) consumers, friends, family and supporters. Lavenderpop was created to confront the lack of diversity among the major greeting card companies as well as smaller gay themed card lines. “The few gay cards I would see at specialty shops have virtually no people of color images.” says Otis Richardson the owner and artist of the twenty card line. “I wanted to create a line that is reflective of Black same gender loving people from many walks of life; young, older, singles, couples, and all genders.”

Richardson chose to focus on everyday type cards instead of specific holidays. The cards cover such categories as Happy Birthday, Romance, Humor, and Get Well. More specialty cards include HIV prevention, youth pride, and honoring the pioneers who have come before us. The cards are currently being carried in five Chicago stores including: Women and Children First, Heritage Books & Music, Cupid’s Treasure, Ragin’ RaeJean’s Gifts & Stuff, and Open Door Books Et Cetera. They can also be purchased online at www.lavenderpop.com.

For many years there has been a cultural maturity among Black gays. This is evident in the proliferation of Black gay literature, magazines, independent movies, social groups, and Black Pride celebrations. Black same gender loving identities are celebrated in a manner not experienced in the heterosexual Black community or the white gay and lesbian community. “As Black same gender loving people, we have our own style, culture, and icons that deserve to be recognized. I strongly believe that our communities are ready to embrace greeting cards that look like us and represent how we live and love in an accurate and culturally sensitive way.” says Richardson.

Otis Richardson recognized his God given talent for art at an early age. He has studies painting and illustration on the undergraduate and graduate levels, obtaining a Masters of Fine Arts from Northern Illinois University in 1990. He is a contributor to Fat Gurrl Ink Greeting Cards (Fat Positive Womyn). His illustrations can also be seen in the recently released book STAYING POWER!: The Unofficial Guide to Maintaining Positive African-American Male Relationships.

Lavenderpop Greeting Cards fill a unique void in the greeting card industry. Although the cards were created for the Black LGBT community, many of the styles are relatable regardless of race or sexual orientation. “I created a card titled ‘They Call These Divas?’ It’s intended to be sent to the person/s in your life who thinks they are the biggest Diva. Doesn’t matter if they’re Black, white, Latin, female, male, gay, or straight. It’s a fun card that crosses all lines.”

For additional information or to receive card samples, contact Otis Richardson.