Local Breweries Make Black Is Beautiful Beer To Support Equality

Numerous Oklahoma breweries are taking part in a new beer campaign to help spread equality and inclusion.

Angry Scotsman Owner Ross Harper first heard of the idea on social media.

“I believe there are over 400 breweries across the nation that have gotten involved now,” Harper said.

Weathered Souls Brewing Company in Texas came up with the idea.

Participating breweries create their version of a stout called Black is Beautiful.

“We’re going to add a combination of black cherry, vanilla and dark chocolate to it,” Harper said.

For each Black is Beautiful sold, 100% of the proceeds goes to a local foundation or organization of each brewery’s choosing.

Breweries are encouraged to pick organizations that promote inclusion or support police brutality reform.

“I immigrated to the U.S. almost 20 years ago. I’m not an expert on American civil rights history. I don’t know the steps forward from here, but I know I have a voice. So, if my voice can contribute constructively to moving forward, then maybe my action can give a voice to those people who can’t,” Harper said.

Harper is not alone. In Oklahoma City, Twisted Spike, Coop Ale, Prairie Artisan Ales and Elk Valley are also brewing their own variations of Black is Beautiful.

Elk Valley will give proceeds to the Urban League of Greater Oklahoma.

COOP is donating to the local chapter of the NAACP.

As for Angry Scotsman, Harper is still trying to decide where to donate, and is willing to take suggestions.

“If you look at bars and pubs in Scotland where I grew up, they’re neighborhood living rooms. They’re where the community comes together, and if we want to emulate that community spirit in our own tap room, it’s important that we support the greater community around us,” Harper said.