Vancouver Whitecaps Special Edition Black History Month Uniforms

Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced, February 1 the launch of their Black History Month uniforms, featuring a striking design created in collaboration with acclaimed local artist Anthony Joseph. The special edition jersey celebrates the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Black community, both in Vancouver and across Canada.?

As part of Black History Month, the Whitecaps wore their commemorative uniforms during their final two preseason matches in Marbella, Spain on Sunday, February 2 against FC LNZ Cherkasy and on Thursday, February 6 against IF Brommapojkarna. The team also wore the kit in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round One victory against Costa Rica’s Deportivo Saprissa by a 2-0 (3-2 aggregate) score on Thursday, February 27 at BC Place.?

“Black heritage is deeply ingrained in the history of the Vancouver Whitecaps, throughout alumni, staff, fans, partners, and media,” said Tosaint Ricketts, former Whitecaps FC player and current liaison of player and club engagement. “This is a time to recognize and celebrate those contributions, and we couldn’t be prouder to work with Anthony to bring this connection to life.”?

Featuring premier partner TELUS across the chest, the Black History Month uniform features a bold and unique design, incorporating elements that pay homage to African heritage and the Black community. The color palette includes the traditional pan-African colors of red, yellow, green and black, as well as Kente patterns on the logo and numbers.?

Joseph is a Vancouver-based artist known for his vibrant and thought-provoking work, which includes his nationally recognized Hogan’s Alley mural for the Vancouver Mural Festival. Joseph drew inspiration from both the Black and Vancouver communities which he embedded through the patterns, colors and symbolism.?

The neckline features “Black History, Canadian History”, a quote from Jean Augustine. The first Black Canadian woman to serve as a federal Minister of the Crown and a Member of Parliament: “Black history is not just for black people. Black history is Canadian history.”?

The jock tag includes a hummingbird – the official bird of the City of Vancouver, and a prominent bird throughout several Caribbean nations from which our players trace their heritage.?

“It’s been incredible to work with Vancouver Whitecaps FC on this project,” said Joseph. "With no restrictions, I could go all in on my jersey designs to create visuals that symbolize unity, pride and a celebration of Black culture. I hope it inspires open-dialogue and brings communities together.”?

As part of Black History Month, the club will continue to support Eth??s Lab, a local non-profit innovation academy, with a community donation to help support their programs for Black students in technology.?

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