End The Stereotypes is a company that is raising the bar on T-shirt messages. Crawford’s shirts tackle issues such as racial inequality and stereotypes; they bring up hurtful stereotypes to break them down and educate the people reading them. On her website, she has various shirts all devoted to tearing down the messages people have grown up seeing and internalizing in their lives. Check out what she shared with us in a recent interview.
What inspired the launch of your business?
“One day while out shopping I saw a man wearing a shirt that had a horrible stereotype about single moms on it. I was disgusted at the wording on the shirt and the damage it could bring to our society. Once I got home, I couldn’t get that shirt and other harmful stereotypes out of my head. I decided I had to do something to combat those negative stereotypes, so I decided to begin my own t-shirt and apparel line to bring awareness to how harmful stereotypes can be.”
In a statement on your website, you mention the words of your late father, “don’t complain unless you are willing to make a change.” I love that! What are some ways outside of your business are you helping to bring change in your community against stereotyping?
“One way I am bringing change is by supporting local fellow black businesses that are doing positive things in the community. I volunteer with many amazing organizations by bringing awareness to their mission and highlighting the positivity within our community. I have also recently entered into law school to continue my goal of helping those underprivileged. I wear my shirts proudly to open up a conversation about how harmful stereotypes can be.”
What do you feel we as black people can do to aid in changing some of these false narratives in the media?
“We have to show up more. It’s tragic how we have let our power divide us instead of uniting us as the unstoppable force we are Black people are. We need more black people in power positions in media companies. It’s sad that some of the most damaging narratives about black people are the ones that are being pushed the most in the media. We have to take our power back.”
What’s next for you and your company?
“We are expanding #Endthestereotypes by adding many new and exciting products. We are actively working at getting our apparel into some major retail stores as well. Keep up on our Instagram (@Endthestereotypes_) to stay updated!”
Follow Us On Social Media!
