Reebok’s New Apparel Collection Furthers Commitment to DEI Efforts
Reebok honors historically Black Greek organizations with its newest apparel drop, the Yard Love collection.
The capsule contains T-shirts and hoodies that are available in seven color combos used by the Divine Nine, a name used to refer to the nine Black Greek Letter Organizations that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council (N.P.H.C.) founded in 1930 on the campus of Howard University. The pieces also honor the organizations for uplifting the Black community and supporting college students of color since the early 20th century, according to The Root.
Reebok reports that Yard Love is part of its United Against Racism commitments to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts within the company and externally. The company pledges to donate a minimum $25,000 to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) in celebration of the capsule.
“Working on Yard Love created space to champion the voices of many Reebok employees who are also members of these historic organizations,” Portia Blunt, VP of apparel at Reebok, told The Root. “Team members who worked on this capsule have made lifelong commitments within their respective organizations, and it’s unique to have a creative space to bring part of your culture to life to celebrate and pay homage through product.”
The collection is currently available for purchase, with prices ranging from $25-$65.
Inspiring Change with Apparel
Reebok is among many companies within the apparel space working toward strengthening DEI efforts. Brands such as adidas, Athleta, and more continue to lead the charge, but this isn’t just a movement on the retail front. Companies within the decorated apparel space are also spurring change.
This change is happening around the world as well. There are several global initiatives that not only push for inclusivity through apparel, but also inspire social change. In an exclusive article shared by Apparelist, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act was not only examined in regard to the effects on the apparel industry, but how it takes effort across the board to inspire change.
“In order for things to change in a positive direction in this world, there is not just one avenue to getting there,” said Rick Roth, founder of Ink Kitchen and owner of Mirror Image Inc., in the article. The change takes a variety of forms, from collection like Yard Love to enacting new laws.
