Nyeusi Ukuu is Black Supremacy or Black Greatness in Swahili. Unlike white supremacy, the concept of Black supremacy is fundamentally constructive, not destructive. It means celebrating the greatness of Afrikan culture, past civilization, and future potential. A Black supremacy mindset allows us to put Black people first in the ultimate expression of Self Love and a higher understanding of Self as encompassing more than the individual, but rather, the collective consciousness as Black includes the presence of all colors in the spectrum of visible light.
There are several reasons we put this phrase in Swahili rather than English like most of our other designs. First, this message is meant for us to communicate with one another. Most people when they see this shirt won't understand what it is, and that's how we want it. Understanding is only for those with the proper knowledge. Second, several great scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop and Chancellor Williams have suggested that in order to push a truly Pan-Afrikan agenda, we must put our tribalism aside and agree on one unifying Afrikan language in which we conduct business, government, and primary education. This doesn't mean we stop teaching or speaking any other Afrikan language, it just means that if you meet an Afrikan in the world from another country, you will at least be able to communicate with them using this language. According to the theory, it is impossible to truly liberate yourself from your oppressor by using their language as your primary language because language is tied to culture. By speaking a language, you are allowing the culture that created that language into your life, and, if it is the main language you speak, your mind will be subconsciously influenced by that culture and its norms. For example, in many Afrikan languages there was no word for things like rape, theft, etc. because these concepts were foreign to them. You could visit a village, forget your bag, and come back weeks later and someone will have it waiting for you. When you put the word into existence, you put the thing into existence and vice versa. Choosing a universal Afrikan language is the first step to defining our reality for ourselves rather than trying to fit European language into it.
This American Apparel hoodie is made out of California fleece which, opposed to typical synthetic fleece, is made of 100% extra soft ring-spun combed cotton. It's pre-washed to minimize shrinkage, and is breathable yet extra thick for warmth.
• 100% California fleece cotton
• Hooded with matching finished polyester drawcord
• Raglan sleeves
• Kangaroo pocket
• Made in the USA, sweatshop free
There are several reasons we put this phrase in Swahili rather than English like most of our other designs. First, this message is meant for us to communicate with one another. Most people when they see this shirt won't understand what it is, and that's how we want it. Understanding is only for those with the proper knowledge. Second, several great scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop and Chancellor Williams have suggested that in order to push a truly Pan-Afrikan agenda, we must put our tribalism aside and agree on one unifying Afrikan language in which we conduct business, government, and primary education. This doesn't mean we stop teaching or speaking any other Afrikan language, it just means that if you meet an Afrikan in the world from another country, you will at least be able to communicate with them using this language. According to the theory, it is impossible to truly liberate yourself from your oppressor by using their language as your primary language because language is tied to culture. By speaking a language, you are allowing the culture that created that language into your life, and, if it is the main language you speak, your mind will be subconsciously influenced by that culture and its norms. For example, in many Afrikan languages there was no word for things like rape, theft, etc. because these concepts were foreign to them. You could visit a village, forget your bag, and come back weeks later and someone will have it waiting for you. When you put the word into existence, you put the thing into existence and vice versa. Choosing a universal Afrikan language is the first step to defining our reality for ourselves rather than trying to fit European language into it.
This American Apparel hoodie is made out of California fleece which, opposed to typical synthetic fleece, is made of 100% extra soft ring-spun combed cotton. It's pre-washed to minimize shrinkage, and is breathable yet extra thick for warmth.
• 100% California fleece cotton
• Hooded with matching finished polyester drawcord
• Raglan sleeves
• Kangaroo pocket
• Made in the USA, sweatshop free
Size guide
| XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | |
| Chest (inches) | 32-34 | 36-38 | 40-42 | 42-44 | 46-48 | 48-50 |
| Waist (inches) | 28-30 | 30-32 | 32-33 | 33-34 | 36-38 | 40-42 |