In 2025, as we commemorate Black History Month under the theme “African Americans and Labor,” we find ourselves at the intersection of past struggles and future possibilities. The story of Black labor in America is more than a historical record – it’s a testament to the power of perseverance, unity, and unwavering determination that continues to shape our present.
When Philip Randolph founded the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters in 1925, he wasn’t just creating America’s first major Black labor union, he was lighting a torch that would illuminate the path for generations to come. That same flame burned bright in the spirit of Velma Hopkins, who dared to challenge the status quo at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company in 1943. In forming Local 22, one of the South’s first racially integrated unions, Hopkins proved that unity across racial lines wasn’t just possible – it was powerful.
The torch passed to leaders like Maida Springer Kemp, affectionately known as “Mama Maida,” who carried the message of labor rights beyond American shores, becoming the first Black woman to represent U.S. labor interests internationally. Her work bridged continents, showing that the struggle for dignity in work knows no borders. This spirit of breaking barriers continued with Hattie Canty, dubbed ‘the Champion of the Living Wage.’ When she became the first Black female president of the Culinary Workers Union in 1990, she didn’t just lead – she transformed. Under her leadership, workers from 84 nations united in one of history’s longest strikes, proving that the power of solidarity transcends all differences.
As we celebrate Black History Month 2025, we’re proud to showcase how our Zazzle Creators are carrying forward the legacy of workplace pioneers while forging new paths in the digital marketplace. Their success stories demonstrate that when we provide equal opportunities for creative expression and entrepreneurship, we all benefit from the rich diversity of voices and perspectives that emerge.
To add personal depth to this narrative, we asked Creators about their historical inspirations for Black History Month advocacy and how their work helps commemorate this observance.
Ashley Anderson – MarleeAshDesign
Inspiration: My ancestors, Kamala Harris, Harriet Tubman, Beyoncé.
Designs: Some of my images include phrases and images that support the Black American experience.
Highlights: Not only am I a black woman, but a proud black woman. My art features phrases & even florals that honor Black History. From the raised fist, to the periwinkle flower which was used at the graves of enslaved people, I try to include images that show my pride.
Usman Mirza – ArtisticAmbitions
Inspiration: People like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. were so brave and inspired me so much. I make designs to celebrate freedom, equality, and pride, so everyone remembers how far we’ve come and how strong the Black community is.
Designs: They showcase designs about freedom, equality, and pride, like Juneteenth and Black Lives Matter, to remind everyone of the strength and resilience of the Black community. It’s my way of helping others remember and celebrate this history!
Highlights: I’m proud to create designs that celebrate Black history and Juneteenth while spreading messages of equality, pride, and empowerment. It feels great to contribute to honoring such an important history and help others show their support through meaningful designs. Every piece tells a story, and I hope it inspires people to learn more and celebrate together!
Professor B & Co. / Professor B – TheScholar’sEdition
Inspiration: I am inspired by the many educational equality movements that have brought educational resources to every child. As a teacher, I couldn’t imagine choosing one student over the other to learn. I look at Little Rock Nine and how brave they were in facing danger just to gain a meaningful education.
Designs: Education is a cornerstone of progress, and in Black communities, it represents a powerful tool for empowerment and pride. I am committed to bringing the best content to language-learning communities, recognizing that a significant portion of these populations are people of color. By showcasing the rich history and accomplishments of Black educators and learners, we honor their contributions to where we are today. Our mission is to celebrate education, amplify voices, and highlight the strides made in the pursuit of knowledge. Through our digital content, we aim to inspire pride in both what we present and consume, fostering a sense of belonging and achievement for all learners.
Highlights: As a black-owned business, I take pride in my heritage and it shows through my elevated styles. Caribbean heritage is pride! We should celebrate it every day of the year!
Sheilah Akinyi – Print_Designs
Inspiration: One of the historical movements that deeply inspires my advocacy for Black History Month is the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The courage of figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks in the face of injustice serves as a reminder of the power of unity and resilience
Designs: My shirt designs play a key role in celebrating Black History Month by combining powerful imagery, cultural elements, and inspirational messages that honor Black heritage. Each design is meant to promote pride, resilience, and unity, while also educating and sparking conversations about the contributions of Black leaders and communities.
Highlights: One highlight I’d like to share is the thoughtful design process behind my shirts for Black History Month. Each shirt is carefully crafted to showcase the beauty of Black culture and history, incorporating meaningful symbols and quotes that resonate with the community.
Viola Flowers – MamaVibesValue
Inspiration: The Civil Rights Movement, led by figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, has been a major inspiration for me in advocating for Black History Month. Their courage and commitment to justice shaped my belief in the power of collective action. The Harlem Renaissance also deeply influenced me, showcasing the richness of Black culture through figures like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston. Black History Month reminds me of the ongoing fight for equality and inspires me to continue advocating for a future where all voices are valued.
Designs: My creations aim to celebrate and recognize Black History Month by highlighting the unique experiences and beauty of Black women. My Zazzle collections celebrate the beauty and strength of African women. Through art, clothing, and accessories, I showcase the elegance, resilience, and diverse beauty of African heritage, helping to uplift and honor the rich cultural history and contributions of Black women. Together, these creations contribute to the ongoing recognition and celebration of Black History Month by amplifying voices, fostering empowerment, and embracing cultural pride.
Highlights: One highlight I’d love to share is how much joy and fulfillment I get from creating works that resonate with and empower women, especially Black women. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my collections help spark conversations about topics like menopause, menstruation, and the beauty of African culture – subjects that I feel are often overlooked or underrepresented. Seeing these creations connect with others, spark confidence, and foster understanding is truly inspiring. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a larger conversation about health, beauty, and empowerment, and I look forward to continuing this journey of celebration and recognition.
Charef Mohammed – Infinity00art
Designs: My creations celebrate and recognize Black History Month by showcasing designs that honor Black heritage, culture, and pride. Through empowering messages, symbolic imagery, and meaningful color schemes like the Pan-African palette, my work highlights the strength and contributions of Black individuals and communities. These designs aim to inspire dialogue, foster awareness, and provide a platform for celebrating Black excellence and identity.
Highlights: My designs aim to empower and celebrate Black heritage through meaningful messages and bold visuals. I strive to inspire pride and spark conversations while honoring Black excellence and culture.
The response from our Zazzle Creator community reveals how deeply the themes of Black History Month resonate with modern entrepreneurs. Their work proves that the spirit of innovation and determination that drove early labor leaders lives on in today’s creative economy. Whether through design, education, or advocacy, these Creators are building on the foundation laid by pioneers like Randolph, Hopkins, and Canty.
At Zazzle, we deeply value the support of the Black community through Black History Month and beyond. Together, we can celebrate progress while striving for a brighter, more equitable future. Here’s to continuing the journey and making a difference in 2025 – one step at a time!
