Break down barriers. Speak without words.

Language: sometimes a bridge, sometimes a barrier. When we reach across continents, our words sometimes create unintended meanings, making trenches when we meant to make bridges. A prime example was the inspiration for this shirt: “Defy Hate”, when translated to Vietnamese, becomes “despite the hatred” or “bat chap su thu han”, a testament to the dance of language and meaning.

Yet, beyond words, stories unfold. From the safety of his office, a soldier, coddled by his privileges, watches over the workers in the fields, sweat pouring off their backs as he adjusts his uniform. As sun sets, a new story begins, one of bats and the looming spectres of “fear and loathing”, a mirror to Hunter S. Thompson’s chaotic narrative.

When words muddle, look for the truth that unites us.