Nas Creates Black History Month Clothing Line

Nas is using his HSTRY Clothing brand to create a new line that will benefit the National Black Child Development Institute.

Nas is hoping to inject some new energy into Black History Month this year when he debuts a new collection from his HSTRY brand. The collection will feature t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats and dashikis featuring positive imagery and messages aimed a Black youth.

Some of the designs may look familiar. One features the classic “Black Bart Simpson” rocking a jersey inspired by Spike Lee’s “Mookie” character from Do The Right Thing. Another has a version of a Dilla-inspired Charlie Brown rendering. There is also a Black Pink Panther design as well as shirts with the iconic phrases “I’m Black And I’m Proud” and “Black Don’t Crack.”

In a statement to Huffington Post, Nas says:

I used to low-key cringe when Black History Month came around. It felt like a slap in face with all the hell we catch daily. Like a small reward for a dog’s good behavior, then back to the kennel. But I’ll take it. I’ll take what I can get and that’s all I need to go to new heights.

We’re in a time now where we can easily get caught up focusing on the negative things going on in America, and feel like we have almost been set back in our journey. This collection is about turning things around and instilling positivity. Celebrating being Black in a loud and fun way. Taking a much-needed moment to be proud of the achievements we have made, our colorful culture, black royalty and excellence from the past, present, and future.

Proceeds from the line will be donated to the National Black Child Development Institute that specializes in delivering “publications, advocacy and trainings related to early childhood care and education; health and wellness; literacy and family engagement” for Black children.

Check out the designs below. Items are available at the HSTRY website.

Photo: HSTRY