To address the lack of representation for children of color in the world of travel gear, Dutchess and Duke, a Black-owned kids’ travel gear company, is making waves with its high-quality and diverse product offerings. As a pioneering Black-owned brand, Dutchess and Duke is dedicated to celebrating diversity. It is creating high-quality products that inspire a sense of belonging.
With over half of all children in the United States being children of color, Dutchess and Duke intends to revolutionize how children see themselves in their travel products. The company specializes in creating backpacks, luggage, and travel accessories. Each product prominently features children from various backgrounds, including African-American, Hispanic, Asian, biracial, and multiracial demographics.
Representation Matters… Even In Travel
Kelie Charles, CEO of Dutchess and Duke, emphasizes the company’s commitment to diversity in travel gear. “At Dutchess and Duke, we are on a mission to bring diversity to kids’ travel products,” she says. “We want children to be excited to have luggage that reflects them. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to feel seen and represented in the products they use.”
The company’s inaugural product line features fun characters representing children of all backgrounds. From Zora, the aspiring doctor, to Grayson, a superhero in training, the company ensures there’s a character for every child.
“Dutchess and Duke is more than just a company,” adds Charles. “It’s a community of inclusivity that connects over shared travel experiences and a vision of inclusivity. Our mantra, ‘Are We There Yet?’, is symbolic of both the eager traveler and our broader goal of global acceptance.”