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Hibbett Celebrates Black History Month - Justus Edwards

Lifestyle

Hibbett Celebrates Black History Month With Justus Edwards

Jan 31, 2024

In celebration of this year's Black History Month, we're amplifying those in the community who are making an impact not just one month of the year, but every day through their talents and ambition.

Tell Us About Yourself!


What's your name? Justus Edwards
Where are you from? Birmingham, Alabama - 205!
What do you do for a living? I am the brand owner of JusWork apparel, a world-renowned motivational speaker, and a model.

Justus Edwards at JusWork Apparel photoshoot

How did you break into the fashion industry?

In 2018 Justus sustained a spinal cord injury during a college football game. Doctors told him he would likely never walk again.

"Through the grace of God, He has allowed me to overcome and to walk again," Justus says. "And to inspire young individuals through my voice."

After his injury and through his recovery, the Birmingham native decided that he wanted to leave behind a legacy someday, a legacy of faith and dedication that would last even after he left this earth.

"The great idea that God put into my heart," he explains, "was to create a clothing brand, JusWork apparel, to encourage and inspire individuals that they can overcome any odds, no matter what they face."

How does your heritage as an African American influence or impact what you do?

"My heritage and my roots play an essential role in what I do," Justus says. He thinks about all the sacrifices his ancestors made for him to have the freedom to own his own business, to express himself through fashion, to share his message and his authentic journey, and says that all he does is almost like a repayment back unto them and to God.



Are there any icons or figures in America’s Black History that inspire you and/or your passions, and why?


"A few people that I look up to are Nipsey Hussle, who inspired me about the marathon of putting your work in, your due diligence in, every day... letting the chips fall where they may and betting it all on yourself," starts Justus.

"The next person that inspired me as a young individual is Muhammad Ali," Justus continues, citing Ali's fighting and competitive spirit as motivators in his life.

Virgil Abloh, who created a pathway for African Americans to express themselves in their own ways, through fashion and streetwear, rounded out Justus' list.

Justus Edwards with host of Good Day Alabama TV Program

How do you celebrate Black History Month?

"I celebrate Black History Month by just being myself, unapologetically, every day; being comfortable in the skin I'm in, and also not being afraid to speak out on my rights," he says.

Justus says he also enjoys going to museums and reading up on his history, to see how far the Black community has come and to educate others of the struggles the community faces as a means to empower them to believe in the African American voice.

Outside February, Justus says he honors his heritage by being a standup guy in his community. One way he does this is by going into schools to inspire younger generations who look like him to be good people and give back to the communities, too.

Why do you think it is important to amplify Black community member voices during Black History month?

"Being a Black man in America is not the easiest thing," Justus starts, "but I feel that it's the thing that you can take the most pride in. As a Black race, we fight so hard just to be heard, just to be valued, and I feel that in this month [Black History Month] we should listen to each other."

Justus says to come together with non-judgemental and fairness-minded hearts and listening ears.

"We should come together to understand each other's backgrounds, to understand what makes this human being the way that he is, the way that he dresses, the way that he moves, the way that he dances, the way that he expresses himself..." he continues.

How do you think this will impact future generations?



Justus says that freedom of expression without fear of judgment today could help future generations live more peacefully and confidently. In that future, he sees more Black leaders who are empowered to drive change and make their voices heard, thanks to the voices of those who came before them.

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