This has been an interesting Black History Month! When it comes to our illustrious 107 HBCUs, you have to come correct. Black Twitter is sounding off in disapproval of Urban Outfitters’ new HBCU Alife X Champion hoodie collection showcasing: North Carolina Central University, Albany State University, Virginia State University, Howard University, and others.
The collection is in partnership with the Collegiate Licensing Company, and the line was inspired by the cultural vibes of HBCU homecomings and streetwear, according to Good Morning America. However, many aren’t feeling the overall design and presentation. The hoodies showcasing 20 HBCUs retail at $89. According to Alife’s Instagram, the company is donating 5% of all February sales to the United Negro College Fund and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. However, many feel that the hoodie’s price is too high, and the donation amount isn’t enough.
One Twitter user wrote, “Hey @UrbanOutfitters, those HBCU hoodies are trash and overpriced… especially during Black History Month.” Another one commented, ”Now ya’ll know ya’ll ain’t right for this mess.”
Interestingly, the team who designed the sweatshirt collection comprises of a team of HBCU graduates. The team includes director Amandla Baraka, photographer Michael Grant, stylist Pamela Shepard Hill, and creative director Treis Hill.
Urban Outfitters has also committed a new initiative, ‘UO Summer Class ’21’. This program will serve as an extension of the company’s 10-week paid internship program where five students will receive one-on-one mentoring with leaders within the Urban Outfitters workforce throughout the summer.
HBCU fashion is essential to students, both past and present. Recently, NBA baller Chris Paul has been wearing HBCU fashions to showcase various institutions and bring awareness in what he calls an ‘HBCU Tour’. He wore Howard University paraphernalia from Shop LPH (Legacy, History, Pride) and even sported a Support Black Colleges hoodie. During lasts year’s homecoming season, he partnered with the Mov app to raffle off some HBCU custom sneakers. The proceeds went directly to the participating universities’ men and women basketball teams.
Roommates, how do yall feel about Urban Outfitters’ HBCU designs?
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