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The theme of cultural unity is nothing new. Since the world began, there has been a drive to come together across all racial, socioeconomic and religious lines and embrace life together rather than as separate groups. In the United States the flame of diversity and togetherness that was ignited during the turbulent 60’s is still burning bright inspiring today’s progressive cultural messengers to bring the diversity movement to the masses in new and innovative ways. DeezShirts.com is a great example of how two politically and socially aware Dominicanos set out to make a difference, one shirt at a time.

Justo Garcia Cruz and Manny Montilla Villaman created DeezShirts in 2000. Born out of the desire to celebrate and express their love of the Dominican Republic and its rich culture, Justo and Manny began to manufacture one of a kind t-shirts that made a significant style statement about being Dominicano and proud.

"The reason why DeezShirts is what it is today is because I took the initiative to represent my culture through my shirts and artwork in a very different way than the usual stereotypical representation." says Justo. His partner Manny echoes similar sentiments, "DeezShirts was born out of that lack of identity. We pride ourselves in producing a quality product that people can immediately identify with and be proud of."

Wearing a classic DeezShirts tee gives many Latinos y Latinas a chance to represent for their culture without sacrificing their style. But Justo and Manny wanted to go beyond everyday fashion by making their shirts a visual display of a message that was both artistic and political.

"The beauty of what we do is that our products double as our canvas to the world. Just as a painter has the ability to share her/his work with everyone that comes in contact with their creation, our shirts act in the same light. Once a design is finalized and our shirts created the message contained is immediately broadcasted into the universe. Once our customers purchase their DeezShirts the knowledge bestowed by our designs is embraced and the education begins on a broad scale," says Manny.

DeezShirts is a powerful fusion of art and fashion resulting in something fresh and new that commands attention. With sayings such as Que Mangu? or I Still Love White People, it comes as no surprise that these tees are for those who dare to be bold and beautiful. Currently, DeezShirts are available in several sizes for both men and women but soon children will also be able to represent their love of their culture on the schoolyard. "We've received many requests for children's sizes and are going to be releasing those sizes shortly," comments Manny. There are also plans to expand the line into complete apparel giving their customers a chance to outfit their entire lives from head to toe in consciousness raising clothing.

Even though Justo and Manny are developing DeezShirts into a powerful lifestyle brand, it was not always their lifelong dream to be in the world of fashion. "I never thought I would end up on this side of the fashion world. It was more of an experiment at the beginning and I am happy I took the chances I took that got me here," says Justo. Thankfully for those in the fashion world, they did take a chance since clothing lines and companies like DeezShirts give a voice to underrepresented consumers.

For now, most of DeezShirts have a Dominican, Cuban or Puerto Rican slant but soon enough Latinos throughout Latin America and the Caribbean will be able to flaunt their very own ethnically celebratory tees. "Now we're working towards touching every Latino culture and we're not stopping there. We will also open DeezShirts up to other cultures with a fascinating story to tell. The goal is to unite everyone with DeezShirts," states Manny. It is with this passion and excitement that DeezShirts forges ahead.

As wonderful role models and practical examples of how to be successful Latino entrepreneurs, Justo and Manny are always willing to lend a helping hand to fellow Latinos y Latinas in search of guidance in regards to the world of fashion and entrepreneurship. Justo states that "It is hard to make sacrifices at times but if one believes in what they do and their heart is in it beyond 100%, any sacrifice you make will not be in vane." His beliefs are as clear to see as his best-selling shirts. Manny also believes in the power of sacrifice. He says that, "Entrepreneurial endeavors are not easy. It is essential to have a passion for what you decide to turn into a business."

Take a chance and make a statement, whether is loving yourself or respecting another, do it with DeezShirts and you’ll be contributing to a unique worldwide movement.

DeezShirts are available at www.deezshirts.com but soon customers will be able to purchase DeezShirts apparel at fine retailers in New York, Boston and Miami.