NFL Partners Again with LOVE SIGN® for New ASL Apparel Line
Photo property of NFL
NEW YORK – Aug. 29, 2024 – The National Football League (NFL) and LOVE SIGN® have teamed up once more to launch the latest line of t-shirts in the NFL ASL Collection by LOVE SIGN®. This exclusive collection, which features American Sign Language (ASL), is now available on NFLShop.com/ASL.
Designed by HOMAGE, the new t-shirts in the collection feature the logos of all 32 NFL teams, with each team’s name spelled out in ASL. This new release aims to engage fans and provide a more inclusive option for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community.
“Last season, the NFL proudly introduced the NFL ASL Collection by LOVE SIGN® featuring the ASL sign for ‘I Love You,’ marking a first for the NFL as we strive to create more inclusive apparel for our fans,” said Sean Greene, Senior Director of Licensing at the NFL. “This year, we’re enhancing our commitment to inclusivity by adding t-shirts that educate fans on how to sign their team’s name in ASL.”
Alexis Kashar, founder of LOVE SIGN®, expressed her excitement about the ongoing collaboration, stating, “LOVE SIGN® is proud to partner with the NFL to highlight the power of sports in uniting people. By leveraging the reach of sports, we aim to raise awareness about American Sign Language and underscore the importance of an inclusive society. We are thrilled to be part of this initiative.”
Ryan Vesler, founder and CEO of HOMAGE, added, “It's an honor to partner with the NFL and support Alexis Kashar’s mission to promote human connection. At HOMAGE, we believe that clothing and storytelling are intrinsically linked, and when combined with American Sign Language, it creates a powerful message.”
The NFL’s dedication to engaging the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community extends beyond merchandise. Since 2009, the NFL has collaborated with advocates like Alexis Kashar to promote closed captioning for Super Bowl commercials, ensuring full access to this cultural event. In 2010, the NFL began featuring talented Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing performers to deliver ASL renditions of the National Anthem, "America the Beautiful," and other pregame songs at the Super Bowl. In 2022, Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing artists performed a live ASL rendition of the Super Bowl Halftime Show, which was streamed globally. Additionally, the NFL Kickoff game on September 5, 2024, will include an in-stadium ASL performance of the National Anthem.
To explore the new t-shirts in the NFL ASL Collection by LOVE SIGN®, visit NFLShop.com/ASL.
About Alexis Kashar and LOVE SIGN
Alexis Kashar, a civil rights lawyer from a multi-generational Deaf family, has a rich legacy in advocacy and innovation. She founded LOVE SIGN® to emphasize the power of human connection through mainstream culture, sports, and fashion. A Deaf and female-run company, LOVE SIGN® has been featured at the Oscars, QVC, and the White House with its jewelry collection. In 2023, LOVE SIGN® expanded into apparel through collaborations, including with the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures and the NFL, to celebrate a more inclusive society.
Visit: lovesign.shop
Instagram: @LoveSign.ASL
About HOMAGE
HOMAGE, Inc. is an apparel brand known for its authentic storytelling and legendary comfort. The company’s collections pay tribute to people, places, and moments that matter, creating a strong connection with fans. As an official license partner of the NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB, TOPPS, Starter, numerous colleges and universities, and many pop culture brands, HOMAGE offers its apparel online at HOMAGE.com and in stadium team stores nationwide. HOMAGE is proudly based in Columbus, Ohio.
