DRC ApeParel

King Status X DRComrades

2011-05-26T11:07:00.000-04:00

King Status Tee: If you are a king in your own right, whether it be in business, on the mic, on the court or any aspect of life, this tee represents you. There is only one type of status you need and that’s “King Status!”

www.DRCApeParel.com

Fashion For Freedom Movement

2011-03-29T12:56:00.000-04:00

From DRC's Creative Director, Eric Ndelo:

The fusion I see around me is astounding. So many different, creative individuals and organizations are using fashion to convey a message and it is more than just something I've observed.

It's a movement. And the message is freedom.

It make us smile to see that it's cool to be conscious and that there are so many like us - Obey, Invisible Children and So Me, to name a few - who are implementing social awareness initiatives to speak out for a cause. We all have a creative drive to convey a message through fashion that can be sold to raise funds to support the countries and people who need it the most. The people who have been hit with unthinkable atrocities or natural disasters.

As we at DRC ApeParel continue to push for freedom from oppression, exploitation, fear, slavery, murder and so on in the Congo (and worldwide), we are honored to be part of an amazing body of people in the fashion industry who are striving for real, honest change.

Support us and be part of the movement!

The Congo's Treasure: her land

2011-03-23T12:11:00.003-04:00

The River and Rainforest

The Congo is the planet’s second largest river by volume - the Amazon is first - and second largest rainforest. It stretches across central Africa and two-thirds of the forest is found in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

To get an idea of the magnitude of The Congo’s impact on the region check out this blurb from www.greenpeace.org:

Millions of people across the region depend on the forest for food, medicine and shelter, and the cultures of many communities are founded on their relationship with the forest. No less than two-thirds of the DRC's 60 million people rely on the forest in one way or another.

The wealth of biodiversity is also immense. Forest elephants roam the area as do three species of great ape: gorillas, chimpanzees and bonobos. Animals and birds such as okapi and the Congo peacock are found nowhere else. And, as with all large forest areas, the Congo plays a vital role in regulating climate, both locally and globally.

Logging the rainforest in hopes to boost the region’s economy has been met with the cold, hard fact that the land has been stripped by unfulfilled promises. Corruption is wide-spread and until the minds and hearts of officials can be changed, plans to trade the natural resources of The Congo for financial gain, thus improved living and working conditions, will continue to fall down a well no one can see the bottom of.

To the world, as much CO2 as has been released by the UK in the past 60 years could be released by the deforestation of The Congo. To the people, their lives are directly connected to the welfare of the land. It is our global and social duty to be conscious of these threats and work towards change and protection of the land.

The Gorilla Habitat

Logging, agriculture, illegal hunting are the main causes for destruction of the gorilla habitat in The Congo rainforest. Threats to both the forest and the gorilla go hand in hand and their safety rely on the success of the government to enforce penalties.

Grauer’s Gorilla is the largest of the four types of gorilla and lives only in the DRC.

The Cross River Gorilla habitat is being carved into isolated blocks and can only be found on the Nigeria-Cameroon border.

The Mountain Gorilla lives in the heights of the forest and exists in just two spots today.

The Western Lowland Gorilla is threatened by the demand for bushmeat and the Ebola disease, but recently a secluded crowd of 125,000 were discovered in the DRC!

Organizations like the Wildlife Conservatory Society do tremendous work to discover vital information to help save these gorillas and their fellow forest mates. The most important thing we can do to help is put pressure on the government of these countries to implement defined restrictions on where and when humans can impede on the lives of the trees and all the species of bugs and animals that live in them.

The new DRC ApeParel Website has launched!

2011-03-15T09:38:00.002-04:00

It's up and running - click here!

We are proud to present improved features, sly navigation and a design that is rugged yet stoic, gorilla-style.

Our backend and under the covers coding is very complex with over 960,000 lines of code running the site. We have at least another 200,000 lines of code to be injected into the system before the end of the year, and boast 55,000 lines of content currently in the system - which will continue to grow at a rapid pace! Our goal here is to make it easier and faster for our providers to put content into the system and to ensure visitors interact with a clean, simple to use, fast interface.

To recognize the power, flexibility and scalability of Titus aka DRC 3.0, we use these technologies:

DRClassification System: the powerhouse -- allows us to easily organize and reorganize our content with a few simple clicks of the mouse; our content is now centralized and hosted on redundant in-house hardware.

DRCandy UI: the candy -- a highly customized user interface providing a vibrant, visually appealing experience for our customers; no candy is sweeter than DRCandy!

DRCache: the speed -- a developed component to make visits to the site load quicker than ever. Not only does the site look good, but it's fast as well!

DRCommerce: the shop -- a revamped system provides an exciting shopping experience. A virtual walk through our store is one of those experiences that makes you say "It's Cool 2 B Conscious!"

Look for future enhancements to the website like mobile phone apps, wallpapers, PS3 themes and more!

Credits

Website Architecture.....Jay Dawkins II

Creativity & Website Development.....Eric Ndelo

The Cause and blog content.....Jen Novelli

Let's Party and...with The Notorious B.I.G.

2011-03-08T09:06:00.000-05:00

Fourteen years ago this week - on Wednesday, March 9th - a nation will remember one of the greatest rappers in history. That nation is the hip-hop nation. The rap nation. His home, the American nation, and many others around the world that knew Christopher Wallace as The Notorious B.I.G.

From sea to shining sea

Biggie's talent was born in the gang-torn, hustl'n streets of his Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood, and as it grew, so did his notoriety. Twenty-four years later he was shot and killed in Los Angeles, where his death washed over his fans like a drowning wave.

Today we remember what made him great.

No one could tell a story like Biggie. His flow is lyrical, his delivery honest and he's a beast at his craft. And that's something that we at DRC ApeParel identify with.

When we created our logo, the Gorilla represented not only a native species to the Congo, but also a cool, intelligent and seize-the-day nature. We believe this instinct was crucial to Biggie's survival and success, much as it is to ours.

So, this weekend as we celebrate the birthdays of our Chief Operating Officer, Tony Mercer, and Creative Director, Eric Ndelo, we will commemorate the life and death of The Notorious B.I.G.

Join us in Gorilla City!

We extend an invitation to all of you - our fans, customers, volunteers, friends and DRC family- to join us at Sin City at 410 Westinghouse Blvd. in Charlotte, NC from 10pm-2am.

No Cover. No inhibitions. It's cool to be conscious!

Invisible Children & Girl Up

2011-03-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

Invisible Children is a non-profit organization started by three Californian dudes who while traveling in Africa one summer, decided they could make a difference. Like most things, the evolution from that day to today, and a company generating the energy and funding to support six Ugandan-led programs, has been a process. It all started when they realized a massive amount of raw energy and love exists in people around the country who want to make a difference. They asked, how do we capture it?

Invisible Children: WHO WE ARE from INVISIBLE CHILDREN on Vimeo.

This type of change is what we at DRC ApeParel envision when we get up in the morning, when we sit down at the office, and when we have a new design inspiration to bring to you.

As we grow and expand our reach, we encourage you to take this journey with us. Connect with us on Facebook, be part of the blog community, chat with us on Twitter. Tell us how we can strengthen our relationship with you and we'll impart things you can do to help bring peace to the Congo and other areas of Africa, like Uganda.

Challenge yourself to be a part of peace by checking out one of the six Invisible Children programs, as well as the Girl Up campaign supported by the United Nations Foundation.

Girl Up connects American girls with girls around the world who are close to the same age. This one-to-one connection not only raises the confidence and spirit of both girls, but the value of communicating across diversity and distance empowers them. The future of peace and prosperity for both countries where these girls live is dependent on what they choose to do with their lives. We need their strength and we need their leadership. Get involved or donate to Girl Up!

It's all about making the connection! We'd love to hear from you today!

Thread of True Congolese Unity

2011-02-22T10:33:00.002-05:00

We round out Black History Month with a man whose philosophy is paramount to the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Patrice Lumumba (1925-1961), a Congolese independence leader who helped orchestrate the Congo's freedom from Belgium, is our resident DRC ApeParel historical hero.

photo credit: weallbe.blogspot.com

Patrice Lumumba was born to a small tribe, grew up writing poetry and reporting for the press, then started the first nationwide Congolese political party. His rivals believed his humble beginnings could be overshadowed by their birth rites to prominent tribes in Belgian Congo, but his roots were a source of his strength and led him to great influence.

Lumumba was able to connect people of all tribes, spanning 905,563 square miles of country (slightly less than 1/4 of the US). Not a small feat. And not something others had attempted.

Bringing people together in this way shed light on the similarities between tribes, their common denominator being desire for a free nation, and increased the likelihood of a successful transition from Belgian rule to independent rule.

The MNC - Congolese National Movement - headed by Lumumba, won the first elections and formed the new independent government on June 30, 1960, now national independence day.

Soon after, already shaky ground began to rumble. His resolve to run the country as he see fit, independently, led to what historical claims report as a situation in which "an imprisoned Lumumba was more dangerous than a dead Prime Minister". Escalated tension and hostility among other leaders with vested interest in the Congo, both foreign and native, led to Lumumba's arrest and subsequent murder.

His life, as is the case for many of history's true leaders and men and women of heart, is one of great tragedy and triumph - without his vision for a united Congo, without his individual leadership, the thread of true Congolese unity would be further lost in a battered sea of global political bureaucracy.

Let us take up his philosophy, let us fight for an empowered, unified Congo! Pe No Chao!

Purchase our tribute to Lumumba shirt!

In good company with three musical masters

2011-02-15T08:48:00.001-05:00

Let's go on a journey. Start with a lazy afternoon sittin' on the dock of the bay with the king of soul. Then as the day turns into night follow the sounds of the blue train down into the club and dine with the master of jazz. With renewed energy, learn da art of storytelling into the wee hours of the morning from a legendary hip-hop duo. What a trip that would be, right?

Otis Ray Redding, Jr. was born in 1941, the year President Roosevelt established the Fair Employment Practice Committee and prohibited racial discrimination in hiring by federal departments. Though his death was untimely, he was 26 and his biggest hit "(Sittin' On) the Dock of the Bay" was yet to be released, Otis Redding's is identified by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, where he was posthumously inducted in 1989, as synonymous with the term soul, music that arose out of the black experience in America through the transmutation of gospel and rhythm and blues into a form of funky, secular testifying. 1967 marked other untimely deaths as riots for African American civil rights escalated. But like the ebb and flow of Redding's bay, positive strides were also made that year. Justice Thurgood Marshall was inducted into the Supreme Court and state prohibitions to interracial marriages were ended.

John William Coltrane was given to us in the year of 1926, born in the small, North Carolina town of Hamlet, and left us the same year as Redding in 1967. Early family deaths and the discipline of The Navy constructed the design of his early life, and the rest is jazz history - he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize Special Citation in 2007 for his masterful improvisation, supreme musicianship and iconic centrality to the history of jazz. He seems to have attained a Zen-like jazz through the mastery of internalizing his surroundings, learning from fellow musicians and friends like Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk, by absorbing information and returning it to the world with a signature that could only be John Coltrane.

Outkast is Andre 3000 and Big Boi. Known to their mommas as Andre Lauren Benjamin and Antwan Andre Patton, they were both born in 1975 in Georgia and have a passion for hip hop. Musically, Outkast weaves elements of funk, soul, rock, electronic, spoken word, jazz and blues together to create an original and diverse sound. And though they are succeeding by measure of awards, sales and popularity, Outkast stands for a different measure of a (wo)man....

i'm speakin about you playin with that phony stuff you sharin
in your raps Mercedes Benz and all your riches
thinkin you got it, but get it get it

Their ability to transform the basic principles that guide their lives into music is what makes them legends. To them, hip hop is a lifestyle - a mindset even - and proves to be a solid foundation for their infinite creativity and good will. Check out...

~~~

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The Power of O

2011-02-08T08:18:00.000-05:00

O is a powerful letter. The shape is complete and simple, evoking a sense of strength and boldness in its viewer. Words starting with the letter O can seem to take on a life and personality all their own. Original. Outstanding. Oprah.

Yes, Oprah Winfrey is our Black History Month lady of the week today because she embodies outstanding originality, a trait we at DRC ApeParel strive for in our clothing and hope to encourage in you!

Oprah says about her life...

I don't think of myself as a poor deprived ghetto girl who made good. I think of myself as somebody who from an early age knew I was responsible for myself, and I had to make good.

This attitude about life resembles that of Martin Luther King Jr.'s and is the mantra behind not only her success, but her ability to change her life and the lives of millions. Born on a farm in Mississippi in 1954, the year racial segregation was ended in public schools, Oprah explains that from an early age she knew she was bound for greatness. Since its beginning in 1986, her talk show has been rated #1 for 24 consecutive seasons and reaches more than 40 million viewers every week in the US alone.

She worked her way up the latter, from first African American news anchor in Nashville at age 19 to local talk show host in Baltimore, and then to Chicago to host a morning talk show that quickly became The Oprah Winfrey Show. Her style, power and choice of topics grabbed viewers' attention, pulled people out of their comfort zones, and allowed them to analyze their concerns, problems, and lives. By utilizing data and information from experts in combination with an optimistic perspective, Oprah changed they way millions approached life and the positive energy fueled a lasting success.

Then in 2000, the power of O struck again with O, the Oprah Magazine. A women's lifestyle magazine, it currently has 2.35 million readers each month and extends her message to LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE. In 2002, Oprah took this message a step further, off her American front porch and into the heart of South Africa where she launched her first international edition of the magazine. And in true Oprah fashion she didn't stop there. In 2007, she founded the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation, a first-class school designed to nurture, educate, and turn gifted South African girls from impoverished backgrounds into the country's future leaders.

The Oprah Winfrey Show is in its last season this year, the final episode being sure to release a flood of tears from people around the world, but tears of relief and joy have already sprung following the debut of OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, this past January 1st, 2011. The power of O continues and there's no doubt the ripples of its wake will be felt for generations to come.

Black History Month 2011

2011-02-01T10:08:00.000-05:00

We are not makers of history, we are made by history.

So said Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in his book, Strength to Love, in 1963. He believed that if the people of a society use history as a guide to living, and are humbled by it, they will make wiser choices for themselves, their families, neighbors and ultimately, the world. If they however, view themselves as makers of history, an unfounded confidence may cause the society to repeat the same mistakes again and again.

This quote provides us with another insight as well - the difference between these two can be easily confused or missed altogether by the untrained mind. He calls for us to become acquainted with disguises, know ourselves, and prepare our minds to ensure a reality in which we come closer to truth.

Dr. King is one of many important black figures in history. His philosophy and civil rights activism changed the way an entire generation and generations to come viewed themselves, society and their fellow man. As we forge ahead into February, the DRC ApeParel blog will be bringing you highlights each week of valuable people, ideas, places and events in Black History.

~It's cool to be conscious!~

Also, PRESENTING...!

Who: The Organization for African Students Interests and Solidarity, O.A.S.I.S., at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What: 30th annual Africa Night

Where: UNC-Chapel Hill campus in the Great Hall of the Frank Porter Graham Student Union

When: Friday, February 12th,

Dinner at 5pm, Fashion Show at 7pm

Buy your tickets online!

Dinner $5, Fashion Show $7, Combo $10

One Signature, One Love

2011-01-26T13:58:00.000-05:00

DRC ApeParel just signed this.

It's the Enough Project's petition to continue to keep conflict minerals regulations strong. Just like an individual person, organizations and groups of people also need reassurance, motivation and support from the greater whole. So, sign the petition now asking the SEC to hold their resolve and not back down in the face of pressure and greed.

5,000 signatures by January 28th are needed to reach the goal that has been set. That's two days! Show your support and take the opportunity to describe in your own words what it means to you.

It's cool to be conscious!

African influenced style steps up big in 2011

2011-01-25T11:37:00.002-05:00

In the spring of 2009, we saw an abundance of African influenced designs walk down the runway in New York, including hairdos for Christian Dior. This year, Gwen Stefani introduces her Spring 2011 L.A.M.B. collection that is steeped in unique, unabashed African style. Stefani makes it hard to look away, and we, for one, don't want to.

As for most things in life, to keep something alive and bursting with positive energy, change, adaptation and creativity must be an integral part of the process. Thus, the leading minds behind the development of new DRC ApeParel lines and designs have big plans for 2011!

DRChic ~ Our cut-&-sew women's line based on interpretations of Pan-African culture is sure to spice up your wardrobe!

L.E.S.A.P.E. ~ Our Afro-Street-Global men's line inspired by fashion movements in areas of African Diaspora from the 1920s-1990s carries a clean yet rugged vibe. Be on the look-out this fall and check out our previous post on A Sapuer's Life.

This spring, our T-shirts will reflect much love and respect for...

Black History ~ Check out our tees this February..and your local city events, tours and journalism for a great opportunity to get educated!

The ladies and gentlemen in our lives ~ This Valentine's Day, February 14th, we will be introducing Love Languages, Peace Languages, Nappy Love and Lord of Love tees.

The Notorious B.I.G. ~ 14 years ago, on March 9th. RIP, Biggie.

Check out more hot men and women's designs at www.drc144k.com!

Reflection: The life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

2011-01-17T16:15:00.000-05:00

photo credit: hiphopspy.com, quote credit: wikipedia

All I'm saying is simply this, that all life is interrelated, that somehow we're caught in an inescapable network of mutuality tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly. For some strange reason, I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be. You can never be what you ought to be until I am what I ought to be. This is the interrelated structure of reality. ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

After traveling to India in 1959, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was more committed than ever to the process of change through non-violent activism, and had rounded out his belief system for the cause of liberating black Americans across the country and bringing special attention to the lives of southern black Americans. In the years that followed, Dr. King:

Organized the Montgomery Bus Boycott (at the age of 26) that led to racial desegregation of all Montgomery public buses initiated by Rosa Parks.

Founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957 and led it until his death.

Delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech at the March on Washington in 1963. View it on Youtube here.

Saw the Civil Rights Act of 1964 passed.

Campaigned tirelessly for black American economic stability, an end to the Vietnam War and the plight of those in poverty across the nation.

Before his assassination on April 4th, 1968, Dr. King addressed a rally at Mason Temple and delivered a message indicative of a person who had lived a truly humble and heroic life. From DRC ApeParel to you, may we all strive to change lives through actions guided by meditations of universal truths.

And then I got to Memphis. And some began to say the threats, or talk about the threats that were out. What would happen to me from some of our sick white brothers? Well, I don't know what will happen now. We've got some difficult days ahead. But it doesn't matter with me now. Because I've been to the mountaintop. And I don't mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I'm not concerned about that now. I just want to do God's will. And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over. And I've seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land. And I'm happy, tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord. ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In addition, we believe that the memory of Dr. King and support of his causes are respected most through our own service to the community. Check out MLK Day.gov for more information!

South Sudan's Vote of Self-Determination

2011-01-11T12:21:00.000-05:00

We were late to Rwanda. Late to the Congo. And late to Darfur. Today, Sudan is the most likely country in the world for an incidence of war and genocide to occur. Especially given that yesterday, January 9th, marked the first day of South Sudan's week long referendum that will ultimately decide if they will continue to remain with the North or become their own state. Many in the long voting lines Sunday said they were choosing independence, for separation from what they say is a violent state led by a violent man, President Omar al-Bashir.

President Jimmy Carter, along with Senator John Kerry, U.S. Special Envoy Scott Gration, actor George Clooney, and Enough Project Co-founder John Prendergast, are currently present in South Sudan to show support for the referendum. Carter says President Omar al-Bashir does not expect South Sudan to carry the debt of the country if they should separate, but new independence would bring a host of questions and concerns about border control and income that the citizens of Sudan and the world are hopeful can be addressed peacefully.

George Clooney and John Prendergast have teamed up to bring another aspect of the watching world onto the scene in Sudan to promote peace...and prevent war and possible genocide. The Satellite Sentinel Project is a way for anyone to watch areas of potential conflict and threat in Sudan via the web. Read more about how this groundbreaking project is using current technologies to keep an eye on Sudan during this critical time.

To get a better idea of Sudan's precarious position, check out this video; co-production of Not on Our Watch and the Enough Project.

Do your part to be conscious!

Kwanzaa Collective 2010 Celebration

2010-12-21T10:12:00.001-05:00

This holiday season, the Greensboro Kwanzaa Collective will put on a week long celebration from December 26th - 31st! A candle lighting ceremony will be held each day, along with guest speakers, dance, food, and more. Check out event details here.

On Sunday, December 26th join us at Hayes-Taylor Memorial YMCA from 6-9pm where DRC ApeParel will be representing socially conscious style in the fashion show and speaking with kids about the importance of knowledge of self and heritage. Along side will be guest speaker Yusef Suggs and the talents of The Extraordinary Wesley Williams Urban Dance Theater.

From the Greensboro Kwanzaa Collective (GSOKC): a group of families and community members who have joined forces and pooled resources to present a week-long Kwanzaa celebration in Greensboro. The GSOKC also presents programs throughout the year that encourage community members to embrace Kwanzaa’s seven principles (unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, creativity, purpose, and faith) all year long.

Many names, One spirit: music & dance of Africa

2010-12-14T13:45:00.000-05:00

Soukous. Lingala. Ndombolo. Rumba. These terms represent a style of music and dance that is currently the hottest and fastest growing across Africa. They originate from the Congo, where the spirit of the people is being fought for in a different kind of battle, where musicians and artists create their craft in an effort to preserve the spirit that is not concerned with power and politics, but the spirit that finds its strength in the pouring out of truth - whether it be derived from heartache, tragedy, love or life.

And one can hardly imagine music without dance. Styles, moves, routines, the energy that goes into moving your body to a beat and sound can create sincere expression of self and generate a connection with others that allows the mind to become powerful with motivations to live! change! be heard!

Check out this video then take it out on the dance floor!

Influenced by Rumba, Caribbean, Afro-Cuban, Congolese, and traditional African music, this style of music and dance began taking root in the late 1930s and early 1940s in the Congo. The work of early popular bands and artists like - Papa Wemba, Papa Wendo, TP OK Jazz, Bella Bella, and Wenge Musica (to name only a few) - paved the road for the music to spread, gain momentum and evolve as political pressure and conditions worsened in the 1970s in the Congo. Now, what is most commonly known as Ndombolo, is shared across Africa, in many different languages - French, English, African - with styles, dance and attitude all their own but carrying a common thread.

For artists like JBlue LLP and producers like NB Holla, this common thread represents a sense of hope and commradory they have seen carry messages across land, and believe can do the same across hearts and minds in other countries and continents.

It's cool to be conscious!

The Story of Fallen Whistles

2010-12-07T10:36:00.000-05:00

When you visit the Fallen Whistles website the first things you'll notice are a whistle and a journal, and then as your eyes centers on where to go from there, you'll see the first tab is labeled STORY. In this case, first impressions are everything.

The Fallen Whistles campaign raises funds and awareness for the travesties happening in the Democratic Republic of Congo by selling whistles. 100% of the funds are used to rehabilitate war-affected children and advocate for their freedom. And by wearing the whistle, you cause people to become curious and are thus given the opportunity to shed light where there is still much darkness.

Symbol of the whistles given to boys too small to carry a gun.

But, why whistles? When one man's African trek eventually led him to the Congo, he experienced tremendous heartache and grief over the cruelties inflicted on the children there. He kept a journal and recorded the details described to him by the children about their kidnappings, the rebel war camp conditions, forced rape and murder, and ultimately, hope despite lost innocence. One story told about the smallest boys, who were given whistles to blow when the enemy approached, broke him when he learned they were used as first-line-of-defense barricades. But it also filled his well of determination to work for change no matter what.

Falling Whistles founder Sean Carasso (right) stands with the friend who gave him the first whistle.

Fallen Whistles has a tour schedule that looks more like a popular muscian's than an organization working for peace in the Congo, which warms our DRC ApeParel heart. The U.S. is large, in terms of actual land mass and population, and in sharing the same hope for change in the Congo as Fallen Whistles (and many, many other organizations and groups of people around the world) we know that reaching the masses is a crucial element to raising the necessary awareness for that change to happen. One tactic the campaign implements is scheduling unlikely venues for conversations on war-torn Congo, and though unconventional it is where the people are. So, we are proud to say that this year, on November 23rd, a meet, greet and get connected event at the Dapper Style House, a retail store on Morgan Street in downtown Raleigh, was the site of much whistle blowing!

Join us in supporting Fallen Whistles by following their blog!

All pictures courtesy of www.fallingwhistles.com.

Red Ribbons, Universal Access and Human Rights

2010-11-30T07:49:00.000-05:00

World AIDS Day 2010, held on December 1st, highlights the HIV and AIDS crisis this year through the mantra that we all have the basic human right of access to information, prevention methods, and treatment of illness.

World AIDS Day reports that according to UNAIDS estimates, there are now 33.3 million people living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. During 2009 some 2.6 million people became newly infected with the virus and an estimated 1.8 million people died from AIDS. Additionally, Avert.org says that in low and middle income countries, less than half of those in need of antiretroviral therapy are receiving it, and too many do not have access to adequate care services.

In the DRC, the stripping of basic human rights is amplified in the HIV/AIDS struggle. Not only does the lack of political stability decrease citizens' access to care and treatment of disease, civil unrest and crimes against the people, such as rape and kidnapping, increase the instance and likelihood of transmission of disease. Thus, the DRC has one of the largest growing HIV populations in the world, the national average of adult prevalence hitting 450,000 (comparatively, the UK has 90,000 living with HIV).

The epidemic is strongest among young people between the ages of 15 and 24 and women accessing at antenatal clinics, and is on the rise. The driver of the epidemic is concurrent multiple sexual partners. The most severely affected age groups are 20–29 years among women and 30–39 years among men. The epidemic has severely affected children – an estimated 320,000 children younger than 17 years had lost one or both parents to AIDS at the end of 2003. Surveillance data indicates higher prevalence in the eastern part of the country than in the west. ~ From HIV in Humanitarian Situations

One of the most simple yet powerful things you can do is wear a red ribbon this Wednesday, because for us, the people at ground level, it symbolizes public consciousness where the necessity for individual, community and national consciousness is paramount in the effort to increase awareness, and thus achieve universal access. The red ribbon speaks without speaking. It reminds your co-workers, friends, family and fellow citizens that HIV and AIDS are still worldwide epidemics that claim millions of lives, and threaten family structure and country stability. It reminds them that you care, and so should they. That awareness is a crucial step in eliminating HIV and AIDS.

We at DRC ApeParel believe in driving social consciousness at all levels and for causes that offer the promise of saved lives and a more connected, positive global community. One way to do this is to encourage you to respect your body, take responsibility for your sexual health and get tested. Check out some FAQs on getting tested and hear peoples' stories on HIV: Reality from the National AIDS Trust.

Get educated. Get tested. Get involved. It's cool to be conscious!

AIDS history from Compassion International
Recent articles on AIDS rights in the Congo
Raise funds with Avert.org
Order red ribbons through World AIDS Day

SAPE: A beacon of identity for a country in crisis

2010-11-22T21:29:00.000-05:00

There is SAPE only when there is peace -- a sentiment expressed by those who understand the nature and importance of the art form known as SAPE: La Société des Ambianceurs et Persons Élégants.

In the 1920s a Congolese man returned from a visit to Paris dressed in French style high fashion. What he didn't know then that we know now is that his bold style of dress would hit a chord with his countrymen and flourish into an art form practiced throughout the country. Sapeurs, as they are referred, express ideas that any meaningful artist might - resistance, individualism and human bonds that connect us all - through simple observation by others in their neighborhoods, at parties and funerals, and are proving to be a powerful catalyst for hope.

Although the greatest humanitarian crisis in the world is ongoing in the Congo, emerging artists and art forms are thought to be a natural extension of society's reaction to the end of wartimes or other violent, painful and otherwise stressful periods. So, perhaps with the case of SAPE, the Society for the Advancement of People of Elegance, in the Congo, the movement is more like a plea for peace rather than the result of it.

In these wonderfully photographed images of prominent Sapeurs in various neighborhoods across the country these men are a sight for sore eyes for a country ravished by war and political control, and painted to the rest of the world as dark and overwhelmingly hopeless. A beacon of identity for a country in crisis. Because not only do the people need tradition and culture to grasp on to, but they need inspiration to help motivate and spur on the inevitable evolution of a new age.

At DRC ApeParel, we believe in the creative process and art being a strong influence for change and inspiration in peoples' lives. Our designs are meant to make you feel and we encourage you to express yourself! For more on the history of SAPE, check out this article by author, Eccentric Yoruba.

All pictures are courtesy of www.zonezero.com.

The Black Consciousness Movement

2010-11-16T08:26:00.003-05:00

South Africa, 1960. Police open fire on a group of black protesters killing 69 people. Events are set into motion that begin with a struggle between the black majority and white minority for social and political justice that is sustained for the next 30 years. Then in 1994, the African National Congress gains control and the instituted system of legal racial segregation is eliminated. Anti-apartheid Africa is born.

In times of change, there is always a catalyst that converts the necessary elements into something altogether new. Without the catalyst the reaction would never occur, ideas would grow vacant and energy would loose momentum. For South Africa to rid itself of the damaging Apartheid system, a consuming catalyst would have to emerge. Enter the Black Consciousness Movement.

From the Power of Development:
As the government tried to act against this organization or that one, people in many organizations shared the general ideas of the Black Consciousness Movement, and these ideas helped to organize action beyond any specific organizational agenda. If the leader of this group or that one was thrown into prison, nonetheless, more and more black South Africans agreed on the importance of black leadership and active resistance. Partly as a result, the difficult goal of unity in struggle became more and more realized through the late nineteen-seventies and nineteen-eighties.

Today, the effects of the Black Consciousness Movement can be seen in literary works, social and political organizations, and festivities like Black Consciousness Week in Brazil. Each year on November 20th citizens of almost every state in the country celebrate the life of Zumbi dos Palmares, one of the last leaders of a slave resistance community in colonial Brazil in the 1600s. His life exemplifies the idea that if while using your natural talents and abilities to stand up for what you believe to be morally and spiritually true - despite the pain and fight, despite how hard it may be to see the change you want to be - people will be changed, and thus life will be changed.

We at DRC ApeParel also use our natural talents and abilities to draw awareness to social injustices around the world through clever and effective clothing design. Our first designer, Gui Oliveira, was Brazilian born and is described by the DRC ApeParel family as the “Genius”. By incorporating unorthodox artistic graphical elements into his design, DRC ApeParel was ushered to the forefront of the urban streetwear community. Now, our lifestyle is driven by his inspiration and the phrase - Pe No Chao - which means Put Your Foot Down! Take a Stand!

It’s Cool 2 B Conscious.

www.drc144k.com

DRCharity 2010

2010-11-09T10:39:00.003-05:00

This year marks the 50th Anniversary of the Democratic Republic of Congo and is celebrated by DRC ApeParel in more ways than one. But one is especially close to our hearts - giving back via an initiative we call DRCharity. This year our goal was to partner with an organization whose projects have a successful and meaningful impact on the international community, and we have achieved that by building a strong relationship with the Enough Project.

Working with them on their "Raise Hope for Congo" and University campaigns, we help to strengthen the fabric of our culture and communities, here and abroad. In turn we see that we are improving upon ourselves and thus, the very fabrics we offer you, our customers and supporters.

The Creative Director at DRC ApeParel, Eric Ndelo, has learned a lot about walking the talk...

As a youth I was very involved with my local boy scout troop and in my church. We did a lot of mission work all over the U.S., but it wasn't until I went to Mexico in my early 20's that I saw the true vision of helping the international community. Now, as an adult, my driving force is doing what I can to better the lives of the people directly in front of me and in the international community. I encourage anyone who has that gut feeling to help out, to get involved and stay involved. It keeps you energized and it fulfills the soul.

The holidays can be an especially hard time for many people, so this is a great opportunity to jump start your activity in the community. Here are a few charities that DRC ApeParel loves:

The Friends of Congo

Falling Whistles

Enough Project

Any local Congolese Community Group

Charlotte at the 2010 Literary Festival. Eric talking to youth about meaning behind the shirts and giving a history lesson.

P.S. If you are in SC this week, check out the fashion show hosted by America’s Next Top Model Cycle 4 Winner, Naima Mora, at the Russell House Ballroom on the University of South Carolina campus!

Socially Conscious Fashion Show at USC

2010-11-01T13:41:00.001-04:00

Join us next week on November 10th at 8pm for a socially-conscious fashion show!

Fashion for a Cause will be hosted by America’s Next Top Model Cycle 4 Winner, Naima Mora, at the Russell House Ballroom on the University of South Carolina campus. We are honored that Naima's dress for the event has been specially by us at DRC ApeParel!

The fashion show aims to bring awareness to the importance of socially conscious fashion and is supported by fashion lines such as MAC Cosmetics, GAP Product(RED), TOMS Shoes, us at DRC ApeParel and more!

Carolina Productions presents in conjunction with the following: Fashion Board, Carolina Judicial Council, and Sigma Gamma Rho Incorporated.

~ ~ ~
Next week check out our holiday edition of DRCharity for resources that will keep your heart (and someone elses') warm during this wintry season. We'll also discuss Brazil's Black Consciousness Day on Nov. 11th!

Break the Silence

2010-10-25T11:43:00.001-04:00

Today, the greatest humanitarian crisis in the world is happening in The Congo.

Nearly 6 million people have died since 1996, which is approximately 45,000 people each month. The United Nations calls it the deadliest conflict since World War II. So, in an effort to bring awareness to the devastation, activists in countries all over the world come together each year in their respective communities to present information to the public for a full week. This year, Congo Week was held from October 17-23 in an event called Breaking the Silence where demonstrations, films and lectures were organized to deliver the truth about what is happening and why. And how social consciousness can make a difference.

As people of a country where our voice is not suppressed it is important that we offer our support to those who are struggling for one. Large-scale forces of greed and power can be overcome when awareness is generated in the masses, around the world. Prepare for next year's Congo Week by getting educated on the issues from Heal Africa, and then when the time comes register for Breaking the Silence via their website to attend lectures, round-table discussions, films and cultural events in your area. You can also volunteer your time and effort to help organize and execute events!

P.S. This year also marked the Democratic Republic of Congo's 50th Anniversary.

What do you know about the DRC ApeParel Blog?

2010-10-18T16:49:00.001-04:00

Let's start off this post with a couple shots from this year's fashionSPARK show to remind us what DRC ApeParel inspriation is all about!

Inspiration can come in many forms and we all have the right to search for it in life, to take a path and see where it leads. But there are people in countries where war and power and politics destroy hopes and dreams daily, and it is necessary for someone to tell that story so change can come.

The DRC ApeParel blog is about inspiration and telling that story. From news and events in countries of African Diaspora and here at home with DRC ApeParel, the information you find here will keep you connected to the heartbeat of our clothing line and our cause. Each week check in with us to read a new post featuring a story about DRC ApeParel lifestyle, fashion and social consciousness that aims to strengthen your understanding of self and the world around you.

DRC's history and mission starts here.

Read my first post about the message in the clothing and hearing it spoken at fashionSPARK.

Connect wish us via our newsletter and following the conversation on Twitter and Facebook.

It's cool to be conscious!

Fashion Show @ Ponder Wonder in ATL

2010-10-12T14:34:00.001-04:00

Now that you've heard about our recent fashion show in Atlanta, let us show it to you!

Our fashion show in pictures at Ponder Wonder brought out an amazing crew of models who made the clothes pop and a crowd of supporters who partied with the vibe!

Fashion Show at Ponder Wonder in
Atlanta, Georgia on September 16th, 2010.

Introductions by John Dawkins,
Chief Technology Officer at DRC ApeParel.

Eric Ndelo, Creative Director at DRC ApeParel, with Kapinga Marie-Christelle of the Congolese Action Network.

Supporters ready to see the new line!

Drum roll...

Women's dress

Women's jackets...

Men's jackets...

Men's sweatshirts...

Gotta have it!

Check out our online store to purchase and for more styles!

Our new line, the immigrant's journey

2010-10-05T10:25:00.000-04:00

The immigrant’s struggle is defined by intertwining realities.

At home the hardships of life are most often faced with the strength of generational roots, family bonds and pure personal drive for survival. The longing for another life, one that can be seen in dreams and positive thinking, becomes a hope fed by ideas professed in music and stories that criss-cross the borders between countries of pain and anguish and countries of freedom and possibilities. Once that dream is achieved, that foot has stepped out, then a new dream and a new struggle begins.

In our newest line, Fresh Off the Boat, we strive to capture this journey from homeland to promised land in five T-shirt designs. Check it!

International Music

Music is a language that translates across borders of all kinds. Bob Marley’s message – One good thing about music, when it hits, you feel no pain – has traveled from Jamaica to the streets of Brooklyn to small villages in The Congo and conveyed a truth that connects us all to the idea that there are things that bond us together regardless of pain and suffering, space and time, race and gender. In this T-shirt we are sending out a message about survival and what sustains us through the imagery of an indigenous lady from Africa carrying a Boom Box on her head like a jar of water. This international symbol for music, especially hip hop, has the speakers labeled with Gorilla and Star symbols to remind you of our commitment to these ideas.

Shottas

Now, the message is out, the word is out. People want change, but obtaining an American Visa is a struggle in and of itself. This T-shirt conveys the desperation and danger that can come in trying to achieve freedom.

Freshness (F.O.B.)

For those who find a way, the migration from homeland to new land begins with the creation of a new life. The essence of who they are and who they represent is integrated into every decision they make, and with that their cultures and styles have the ability to breathe something fresh into the existing landscape. Diversity helps us evolve as a people and grow stronger, thus this T-shirt is the face of the line.

Rhinoceros Pizzle

With the light, there is also the dark. A movie that speaks to the ugliness that can come from the actions and words of the closed-minded is one of our favorites, Coming to America. This T-shirt shows an image from the robbery scene at McDoogle’s where an immigrant experiences some of the trials and tribulations of assimilating into American culture.

Love My Accent

The flipside of hatred for peoples’ differences can be best shown in peoples’ love of accents. This T-shirt sends the message that immigrants can find comfort in America’s love of an array of intriguing accents, and can be proud of their own.

On the Road with DRC ApeParel

2010-09-21T08:37:00.007-04:00


Finishing touches for fashionSPARK in Raleigh,NC

For a clothing line and team of fashion designers, taking your garments on the road is one of the most invigorating and intense things you can do. Massive amounts of work, stress and attention to detail are involved in producing a new line and then a public performance to showcase it. So, this weekend when we took our new clothing line, Fresh Off The Boat, on a two-day fashion show trip that culminated from months of preparation and planning into the premier of what we see as the next generation of DRC ApeParel clothing, we were ecstatic when it hit the runway.

Models get their cues

Our first show was in Atlanta on Thursday, September 16^th at Ponder Wonder. Then on Friday, September 17^th we joined twenty fellow fashion designers in downtown Raleigh, NC at City Plaza for our 5th year at fashionSPARK! Both venues showcased new t-shirt designs and an exciting new line of dresses and jackets that put a unique spin on the union of traditional patterns and modern styles. Three stunning dresses were handmade by Alyjah Tafari, a designer and seamstress we seem to have reconnected with by fate. And the jewelry our models accessorized with for the shows was handmade by the talented Kween, Linette Knight, and Woodville Inc. (who is Julie Pitts and Adriane Matlock).

Unique bracelets by Kween

Alyjah Tafari replaces a button on one of her seven stunning dresses

In the months before the shows, as we prepared garments and coordinated plans, our dedicated business partners and amazing friends and family spent long hours supporting us and our vision. For this we want to give our immense gratitude and thanks.

It's cool to be conscious!

Fresh Off The Boat

2010-09-14T11:27:00.013-04:00

When passionate ideas and ingenuity come together sparks fly, and given the right circumstances those sparks can start a fire. This Friday, September 17^th SPARKcon comes to downtown Raleigh where we will kick start the weekend with fashionSPARK!

Our new line Fresh Off The Boat will be showcased along with many other local clothing designers and two jewelry designers at City Plaza, starting at 8pm.

The new line will be available for purchase at the fashionSPARK Shop the next day held at City Plaza on Saturday, September 18th from 10am-5pm. We will have promotional deals and a raffle to win a DRC garment! In tandem with this opportunity, our DRC ApeParel website will be having an online sale, so be sure to check out these great chances to purchase your favorite DRC apparel.

We’d love to see you out to the fashion show and the fashionSPARK Shop – both are great ways to learn more about who we are and support what we do!

Conflict to Clean

2010-09-07T22:41:00.000-04:00

In 1997, Zaire became the Democratic Republic of Congo – DRC – after 30 years of dictatorship. The new name struck a cord with two Congolese cousins living in North Carolina and it was while one was in college and the other in the Navy, that their ideas to start a conscious clothing line began to spark. Then, Eric Ndelo made a trip to Europe and upon visiting Belgium discovered the lack of Congolese representation in clothing. His return home marked the beginning of what would soon be a burning desire to bring awareness, and ultimately solutions, to the struggles of Pan African communities through fashion. Roderick Vakala, his cousin, and two other college friends agreed and in 2004 the first T-shirts were made. This burst of energy and creativity came from the line’s first theme “Rocking Your History on Your Chest!”, and today our style has grown into the exclamation “It’s Cool to be Conscious!”

The company flame grows stronger and we have begun to focus on sending our messages at the global level. To do this we are partnering with Enough, a project to end genocide and crimes against humanity, on a campaign to bring full transparency to the on-going, highly profitable business of extracting conflict minerals and processing them into electronics that we use today, like cell phones and laptops. These communities are at the ground level of this risky process where lives are lost and families are disconnected, and many choose it for a simple but very real reason – to put food on the table. So, the idea is to turn these “conflict minerals” into “clean minerals” by bringing awareness to the global community of the problems caused by this business and by influencing the governmental powers and international controls to put pressure on the appropriate parties.

To combat struggles of this nature – for food, survival and livelihood – action is required. Not just talk, but action. Enough’s mission statement begins like this:

The Enough Project is helping to build a permanent constituency to prevent genocide and crimes against humanity. Too often, the United States and the larger international community have taken a wait-and-see approach to crimes against humanity. This is unconscionable.

Our mindset is that this type of injustice requires strong action and dedicated prevention and that is what binds the relationship between our two organizations. We offer a creative, colorful connection that speaks to people through clothing, and Enough is the direct and calculated voice of knowledge and experience regarding solutions on a global scale. Together we believe we can have a great impact on bringing the pain inflicted by these atrocities to an end.

See us “speak” at SPARKcon!

Stand Up and Stand Out!

2010-08-31T09:01:00.000-04:00

We are "The Cool & Conscious". The clothing we bring you is born out of these two ideas and is the essence of what we do. We combine Pan African style with social issues from countries of the African Diaspora to create a clothing line that speaks with a voice unique in the fashion world. Hear our clothes speak!

Our focus is on these times of great need for transformation and change in countries where people are being removed from their homes and land and where their livelihood is being stripped from them. We strive to reach the masses through bright colors, strong patterns, meaningful images, and apparel that makes you feel good when you wear it.

Come see how we tell the tale of millions with each garment on Friday, September 17th, 8pm at City Plaza!

We’ll be showing off our newest styles at fashionSPARK this year in downtown Raleigh where DRC ApeParel will be representing relevant fashion and meeting you, the fans, at our booth. We’d love to answer any questions you have and share information about the social issues we want to bring awareness to, as well as, some promotional items. Admission is free but come early to get a hot spot!

Then, on Saturday, September 18th, we will showcase our products for purchase at the fashionSPARK Shop from 10am-5pm. Also check out a video from fashionSPARK 2009 and read more about upcoming SPARKcon events from the Downtown Dame.

What SPARKcon has to say…

SPARKcon celebrates creativity in the NC Triangle. For 4 days, Raleigh’s Fayetteville St, public spaces, clubs and stages will be filled with art, music, dance, film, fashion, design and more. SPARKcon showcases local cultural richness through an open-source approach to collaboration and cross pollination. It’s completely grass-roots and by the people for the people!

Check out our latest designs at www.drc144k.com

"It's Cool to Be Conscious!"

Music Raises Hope for Congo

2010-08-26T01:34:00.000-04:00

Music can inspire, educate and move people, not only on the dance floor but to action for a social cause. On and 18 track CD, including artists like Mos Def, Norah Jones & Sheryl Crow, just to name a few, have come together to create a compilation album called "Raise Hope for Congo."

Proceeds from sales of the compilation will benefit the field research and advocacy work of Enough’s RAISE Hope for Congo campaign. Please help us spread the word by sharing this link: http://bit.ly/ae7INT, where people can learn more about the RAISE Hope for Congo campaign and download a free track by Mos Def.

Read more...

DRC ApeParel

World Cup Moments: Zaire’s Ilunga Mwepu Deals With a Brazilian Free Kick in 1974

2010-08-20T12:07:00.000-04:00

1974 was a big year for Zaire (DRCongo). A world cup appearance & the infamous "Rumble in the Jungle" Ali vs. Foreman fight. When you are hot you are hot.

DEMAND CONTROLS THE BUSINESS 1974!!

DRC ApeParel Store

Blood Spills, While Gold Pays For DRCongo's Deadly War

2010-08-19T03:31:00.001-04:00

Watch CBS News Videos Online

CBS' 60 Minutes Correspondent Scott Pelley traveled with Enough Project's co-founder John Prendergast to Congo to see how conflict minerals are fueling the deadliest war in the world.
Read and Watch More

DRC ApeParel: "It's Cool to be Conscious!"

Coltan Wars: Mac vs. PC

2010-08-05T02:42:00.000-04:00

Just when you thought it was safe...and Apple could do no wrong. Baam! Here it is. I love my iPhone. But it makes me wonder...How much Congo blood, does my phone have in it.

Speak out about the conflict mineral fueled war going on Central Africa. Someone has to be held accountable.

Join us in our mission to bring an end to the "World's Deadliest War."

DRC ApeParel: "It's Cool to be Conscious!"

DRC Transformed

2010-07-23T13:09:00.000-04:00

transformation (n.): the act of transforming or the state of being transformed; a marked change in appearance or character, especially one for the better

The transformation of DRC is one that launches urban street wear clothing into Web 3.0 space. DRC is renovating itself into a Digital Renaissance of Consciousness mindset, re-birthing it's name as DRC Apeparel.

One of DRC founders, Eric Ndelo, gives the meaning of the new logo and re-branding concept.

"It's Fresh. Cool. Strong. It incorporates more of the elements that make us who we are. The gorilla resembles our attitude and our leadership. The star shows us what we are shooting for and how we want people to see us. We are all stars in our own right."

Some new and enhance features DRC Apeparel is launching are the following:

DRC Experience - an interactive user interface map that shows in depth look at the purpose behind each design
LinkedIn - continuing to grow and increase our business to business relationships
YouTube - explore behind scene footage and learn more about the individuals behind the DRC Apeparel brand.
Twitter - find great deals and follow live runway show tweets
Facebook - stay update and join the conversation on DRC Apeparel fan page

These are just a few of the new features DRC is rolling out this year. Stay connected and stay conscious by signing up for our e-Newsletter, keeping you inform with the latest DRC designs and social conscious issues.

Still keeping their mission and purpose alive "It's Cool to Be Conscious," DRC will continue to metamorphosis themselves with the digital world...Be on the Lookout!

Be transformed by the renewing of your mind...Let's Get It!!!

Visit www.drc144k.com

DRC144k @ Fashion Spark: More Pics

2009-09-21T14:55:00.000-04:00

Here are more pics of DRC @ FashionSpark...

HEART of Congo in FashionSPARK

2009-09-20T14:32:00.000-04:00

Once again, The DRC Clothing Co. brought the HEART of Congo to fashionSPARK. This year's runway was moved to Fayetteville St., offering a better view and a larger crowd. In the words of one Tweeter: Take the past 3 year's fashionSPARK's and put them together, and you have this year's crowd.

With a better venue and a larger crowd, DRC was determined to bring a larger than life showing. So what better time than fashionSPARK to debut the company's foray into skirts and dresses... check the images and tell us what you think.

Special thanks to all the designers, stylist and makeup artists who made this show happen. Special thanks to our wonderful fashionSPARK volunteer, Nanci, who held us down so lovely the entire night. More pics to come...DRC - WE GO HARD!!

NEW LINE: Pe No Chao by DRC144k

2009-07-21T02:11:00.000-04:00

Pe No Chao: "If you translate it word for word it means bare feet on the ground. But to me it means so much more than that. I say this because a lot of people in Brazil walk around barefoot... but it is normal. So it is almost like people can relate to it ... ya know.

The people who walk around bare foot do not really care about what the next man is thinking, they are free spirits and just go with the flow. Now this doesn't necessarily mean that these people are broke, because that's not the case. On a side bar, this could also mean "Put Your Foot Down" which could represent you putting your foot down for PEACE ... meaning YOU ARE NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANY MORE ... THE FIGHTING AND THE VIOLENCE MUST STOP."

- Fernanda de Oliveira (Sister of the 1st Designer of DRC: R.I.P. Gui)

www.drc144k.com/store

www.drc144k.com/store

Way of Life: Deux

2009-05-15T17:02:00.000-04:00

www.drc144k.com/store

www.drc144k.com/store

Way of Life: Un

2009-05-15T16:39:00.000-04:00

www.drc144k.com/store

www.drc144k.com/store

This is the Real!!!

2009-05-13T01:06:00.000-04:00

There was ONCE the BLOOD DIAMOND, now WE have the BLOOD CELL PHONES!