Source: PeopleImages / Getty
If you spent any time at all on social media yesterday, you’ll know that it was Diana Ross’ 75th birthday. The musical icon’s impact was obvious as celebrities and media outlets alike took time to wish the singer a happy birthday, acknowledging her for revolutionizing the music industry, fashion, and—well—pretty much everything. Leading the online celebration was Ross’ daughter and our favorite girlfriend, Tracee Ellis Ross, who popped up on the gram donning a crisp, white “I’m Gonna Win” t-shirt in honor of her momma. We all know Tracee is no stranger to the casual slay, but this motto comes with a message. Tracee’s t-shirt is part of a newly-launched collection from the Phenomenal Woman Action Campaign, a marketing platform geared toward supporting women’s causes. Proceeds from the “I’m Gonna Win” T-Shirt ($35.00, phenomenalwoman.us) benefit Higher Heights for America, a national organization devoted to the education, representation and advancement of Black women within the political sphere.
The “I’m Gonna Win” campaign features a variety of mini-Dianas on a tennis court in homage to the original image of the singer. The message is simple and strong: women will win. Win, we shall. The caption of one image reads, “in a male-dominated world, women can succeed by being their authentic selves,” a truth that speaks directly to Diana Ross’ record-breaking success both within Motown and in entertainment at large. The imagery of the tennis courts and rackets also calls to mind the phenom that is Serena Williams, another pioneer for Black women in a traditionally male-centric space. It goes to show that in any industry, women—Black women—disturb the status quo and elevate the game for everyone involved.
Tracee wasn’t the only one to get in on the fun. Tons of Black female celebrities hit the gram in their “winning” t-shirts. Shonda Rhimes, Teyana Taylor, Lena Waithe, Yvonne Orji, Mya, Eve, Debbie Allen, Robin Roberts, Angela Bassett and MC Lyte were just a few of the many women who threw their support behind the campaign. The Phenomenal Woman Action collection also features an “I’m Gonna Win” baby onesie ($30.00, phenomenalwoman.us) and an “I’m Gonna Win” baseball hat ($35.00, phenomenalwoman.us), available for pre-order.
If cute clothes and Mama Diana aren’t enough to pique your interest, keep in mind that proceeds from your purchase will help Higher Heights for America continue to develop national infrastructure to increase the presence of Black women in positions of political power. With women like Stacey Abrams rumored for the next Democratic presidential ticket, organizations like Higher Heights are critical in helping to change the narrative on what political power looks like. A worthy cause, if ever I’ve seen one—plus, the tee looks great with jeans. Win-win!
Would you rock the “I’m Gonna Win” t-shirt? Leave a comment below!
