The 1966 Home Rule Day rally is where we drew our inspiration. The rally took place on the National Mall, July 17, 1966. Drawing 32 speakers and approximately 4,000 people, attendees heard from notable advocates including Richard Claxton "Dick" Gregory, civil rights activist and comedian,who said, "You can't laugh your problems away." Senator Wayne Morse further stated that home rule legislation at the time offered the "opportunity to strike a blow for human dignity which we cannot afford to reject."
A photograph taken on that day and featured in the Washington Star depicts 3 three young women sitting on the grass during the Home Rule Day rally on the National Mall. The woman in the forefront holds a banner that reads 'Home rule now Washington, D.C. 1966'. That banner is the source inspiration for this piece in recognition of this lesser known moment in the D.C. Statehood movement.
The history of the fight for representation of D.C. residents through the Statehood movement is Black History. This continued struggle persists in the present day and is the pathway to a brighter, more equitable future for not only for the citizens of D.C. but for the Nation.
We priced the garment to be accessible, as spreading greater awareness of advocacy for D.C. Statehood holds more value than a profit margin for us with this. There’s also significance in the pricing itself with $66 representing the year of the Home Rule Day Rally of 1966 and the .51 symbolizing D.C.’s push to become the 51st State in the Union.
Crewneck sweatshirt features "Home Rule Now!” pennant graphic printed at center front chest and "Statehood Now!" graphic printed at center back.
Designed and screen printed in Washington, D.C.
Details:
- 50% usa cotton, 50% polyester blend
- ribbed collar, cuffs and waistband
Size Chart:
XSmall - 36 chest
Small - 38 chest
Medium - 40 chest
Large - 42 chest
XLarge - 44 chest
XXLarge - 46 chest
Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry or tumble dry low.
