Black History Month: Making t-shirts that inspire change

The founder of a not-for-profit clothing brand, set up to support Black rights, is telling MFR News his t-shirts are design to get people talking.

22 year-old Joe Epemolu, who is from the Bellshill area of Glasgow, and friend Aidan Maloney set up 'Amplify Black Voices' during lockdown and all money goes to charity and supporting Black rights movements.

They friends want to challenge perceptions and encourage people talk openly about racism and Black issues.

The pair said: "Scotland as great as it, is not innocent or as accepting as we would believe we are and we need to acknowledge that every day.

"If you hear someone use the word or names call them out.

"It’s definitely going to be uncomfortable and it’s definitely going to be awkward but even talking about the micro-aggressions helps with eradicating the problem and open healthy dialogue.

"The ideas around all the clothing is that is help to try and spark conversation about race, it’s inequalities and what we can all do to educate ourselves and others as well as showing support and respect for everyone who had and has suffered as a result of these inequalities.

"But a conversation starter is just that.

"Of course we appreciate all the support and to see people proudly wearing their tees and totes really is heart warming but having those hard conversations with family, friends and strangers is the most important thing we can do."

Joe is speaking to MFR as we celebrate Black History Month. During October we are showcasing some of the inspirational stories from the region/city's Black community.

This national celebration lasts for the whole month and aims to promote and celebrate Black contributions to British society, and to foster an understanding of Black history in general. Its origins go back to the 1920s.

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