The center of our mission here among our designers is to create merchandise that reflects symbols, themes, or visible images of a range of benefits to African Americans. While we can easily be attracted to multi-million dollar iconic merchandizers such as Adidas and Nike; the globally recognized "swoosh" its' clear these symbols fail to reflect and much less transfer onto their African American patrons who adorn themselves in their labels. We've identified a few of the most compelling benefits, when you make a conscious choice to add to expand your wardrobe to include our own symbols, themes, and references.
1. Cultural Pride: Wearing clothing that celebrates one's own culture can instill a sense of pride in one's heritage and identity. It serves as a visual reminder of one's roots and the rich history and traditions associated with that culture.
2. Cultural Connection: Cultural clothing can help individuals feel more connected to their cultural community and heritage. It can serve as a conversation starter and a way to bond with others who share the same background.
2. Self-Expression: Clothing is a form of self-expression, and wearing cultural apparel allows individuals to express their cultural identity, values, and beliefs in a visible and tangible ways.
Cultural pride, cultural connection and self esteem are essential to a holistically health sense of self. It must be said, that it the same benefit can come for any cultural or ethnic background. Yet, in minority cultures...people of color, we have minimal representation in both the clothes we wear and the advertising that competes for our resources and time.
The next time you reach for the clothing store rack, take a moment to determine if the value of the merchandise you spend your hard earned dollars; rack up for you...holistically in any of the three ways, that benefit us all.