Representation is more than just a buzzword. It is a significant part of how people feel included and seen in spaces that don’t historically value their existence.
One of the most famous examples is the film, “Black Panther.” For the first time, Black children worldwide could imagine a universe where all the superheroes and influential people looked just like them. The film’s representation level was so impactful that people from all walks of life signed each other with the “Wakanda Forever” gesture for years after the movie’s initial release.
Examples like the one above are critical to cultural storytelling and overall inclusivity. Eunique Jones Gibson and the good people down at the Happy Hues Co. would seem to agree.
On Instagram, Gibson, the company’s founder, shared that she went through a regular potty training routine in the fall of 2019. Pulling a pair of training pants out of the box for her then 3-year-old daughter, she noticed something that never really got her attention before. The training pants had imagery and branding that did not align with how her family looked or the daily affirmations she and her husband created for their family.
After diving into some industry research and talking with friends and family, Gibson knew what she had to do. Thus, Happy Hues was born with a mission of “cultivating joy, confidence, and community in every little one,” according to a press release.
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However, this journey would be one that was long-traveled. The photographer, author, and activist is the founder of the popular Black affirmation and culture website, Because of Them We Can. Gibson is also the brains behind the card game Culture Tags.
Although these businesses have different means, they all work to fulfill a similar end, advocating for equity and representation. Gibson understands this work as her life’s purpose.
“Happy Hues and our line of Big-ups hopes to give every child another opportunity to see themselves, on a canvas they all engage, alongside their peers during a time when the foundation for their confidence, self-esteem and even their biases are being built,” Gibson said in a press statement.
With the official launch of Happy Hues during Black History Month, the serial entrepreneur and mom of three is offering plant-derived, shea-butter-infused, unisex training pants for every child of color and parent to enjoy and experience.
To learn more about Happy Hues, click here.
