High John the Conqueror Bandana | Special Edition Juneteenth 2023
During slavery, some enslaved persons began to refer to the roots and tubers of a wild species of morning glory as High John the Conqueror. This was in reference to High John or Prince John, a folklore hero and African prince who, despite his enslavement, never had his spirit broken. He was a trickster who would often turn the tables on those trying to harm him or to take advantage of him.
In "High John De Conquer", Zora Neale Hurston wrote: "like King Arthur of England, High John has served his people. And, like King Arthur, he is not dead. He waits to return when his people shall call him again. High John the Conquer went back to Africa, but he left his power here, and placed his American dwelling in the root of a certain plant."
This year's Juneteenth design uses the morning glory as a tribute to the traditions, culture and folklore created by enslaved persons; their wisdom, adaptability, strength and resilience.
Details:
- 100% Cotton, lightweight
- Handmade and screen printed in the United States
- 22" x 22"
- Designed in Washington DC
Meet the Maker
All Very Goods is an ever evolving collection of accessories, apparel and paper goods founded by Ama in 2019, in Washington DC. All Very Goods is Black woman owned and operated and Ama's designs draw from her background, family history, travels and experiences of being a Black woman in America. The imagery that Ama uses draws from the history and mythology of Black people and Black culture as well as African storytelling and craft making.
Ama's goal for her business is to expand and offer products designed, made and produced by other Black women, encouraging them to use their problem solving skills and innovation to create products and support themselves through business ownership. A portion of the proceeds of all sales is donated to a different non-profit organization chosen each month.