You could say Nas’ career has always been rooted in education. His lyrically intense discography is filled with cautionary tales of street life, love and friendship. From detailing the woes of divorce to uplifting young, black children, his songs have always had a message. However, the latter cause has inspired him to get involved with the community even more.
He’s using his clothing brand HSTRY to educate people about black history. The limited-edition collection will feature graphic tees, sweatshirts and dashikis with printed messages of empowerment like “I’m Black and I’m Proud” , “Know Your HSTRY” and “Black Don’t Crack”.
There will even be pro-black updates to classic cartoons like the Pink Panther and the Simpsons.
Proceeds from the collection will benefit the National Black Child Development Institute. The institute works with young, black children from birth through age 8. It sponsors a series of programs that teach “health and wellness, literacy, family engagement and preparation for college,” as noted on its official website.
Nas has been a vocal critic of Black History Month and its lack of effectiveness in encouraging a bigger cultural conversation. He wants his new themed HSTRY collection to turn things around.
“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,” he said in statement.
Previously, HSTRY released a line of Kneeling Santa Christmas sweaters, which raised funds to combat high prison rates for black men.
You can shop the BLK HSTRY Collection now at hstryclothing.com