The global pandemic was one of many crises in 2020, making it one of the most unforgettable years in recent memory. The social justice movement made ripples across the United States and reverberated out into the world, bringing the names Breonna Taylor and George Floyd among others to the forefront of peoples’ minds.
With protests surging left and right, racists sought excuses and justification for killing people of color. Christopher Scott, an entrepreneur and member of the Black community himself, is doing his part to let the world know that Black people are more than just a stereotype, stigma, or statistic. In June 2020, Scott established his clothing brand, I’m Black And.
“I wanted to create a brand that allowed Black people to feel good from a mental health perspective,” explained Scott. “Seeing all of the unarmed killings and the disproportionate deaths due to COVID-19 in 2020 caused a significant amount of negativity on Black people’s mindsets. I wanted to create a brand that fostered a good feeling whenever Black people saw it and said, “I’m Black And…..”
I’m Black And is a clothing brand that is focused on and dedicated to being a positive and uplifting source for the Black community. The brand allows this community to represent what makes them unique, wearing their heart and soul literally on their sleeves. I’m Black And makes short- and long-sleeved apparel, including clothes for children, enabling customers to tell the world exactly who they are and what is precious to them. The line features shirts that have proud phrases like “I’m Black and More than Enough,” “I’m Black and a Great Mother,” and “I’m Black and a Future Doctor,” among many others.
Founder Chris Scott is a first generation college graduate, senior dual engineer, local, national, and state multi-award winner, entrepreneur, and professional speaker. His brand, I’m Black And, specifically focuses on dispelling stigmas and stereotypes about the Black community. Through the years, Scott has overcome anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts, becoming an advocate for good mental health and sharing the benefits of therapy in the Black community.
Through his struggles, Scott understood that words are very powerful and can contribute to a person’s success or demise. Despite the heavy stigma around therapy in the Black community, this entrepreneur uses his brand to increase people’s positive mindset and improve mental health and self-esteem.
Although there are plenty of brands supporting the social justice movement, I’m Black And separates itself from the others due to its Black ownership and a mission to empower the community and dispel stereotypes and stigmas. Additionally, the brand is a testimony to Scott’s personal mission to send positive thoughts to people in the community suffering from the same mental health issues he once endured.
Chris Scott hopes to expand I’m Black And to offer hoodies, socks, hats, and sweatshirts in a variety of colors. Currently, the brand offers apparel in black and white. Additionally, the entrepreneur hopes to elevate his brand to facilitate partnerships with schools and other companies or organizations that offer programs and events focused on empowering and uplifting the Black community. Scott is optimistic about taking I’m Black And to an international level.
Learn more about I’m Black And by visiting the official website. You can also stay updated by following them on Facebook and Instagram.
