Behind the artwork

About this design

This design doesn’t whisper. With the plain, direct words “Fred Hampton Was Murdered,” it centers the life and death of Fred Hampton, a civil-rights era organizer whose activism challenged power, policing, and class inequality. Hampton’s work with the Black Panther Party stressed community programs, solidarity across lines that leaders use to divide us, and a hard look at what government does to protect the status quo. If you want your clothing to say you remember, you’re paying attention, and you still care about justice, this one speaks for you.

Made for: Activists, educators, students, and anyone who wants to keep civil-rights history visible and start real conversations.

Helpful answers

Questions about this design

What message does this artwork mean to put front and center?
It’s a direct statement of remembrance and accountability. It points to Fred Hampton’s killing and pushes the conversation toward state power, policing, and who gets protected when class inequality is challenged. It’s meant for people who want history, truth, and justice kept visible.
Why do we connect this design to classism and government power?
Hampton’s organizing focused on solidarity and material needs, calling out how systems can be used to keep people divided and underserved. The stark wording keeps the focus on the reality of what happened and why it mattered. It’s a conversation-starter that doesn’t soften the point.
How do I choose the right size for Fred Hampton Was Murdered apparel?
On each product page, click the Size Chart button next to the size options to see the chart for that specific style. If you’re between sizes, we generally recommend sizing up. The chart you see is the one that matches the garment you’re viewing.
When will my order ship and arrive?
We print your item after you place the order, and most orders ship the same day or next business day. After it ships, most orders usually arrive in about 3 to 4 business days. You’ll see shipping details at checkout.
What if I need to return or exchange something?
Our current return policy is maintained on our Policies page, and returns are generally accepted within 30 days under that policy. If your order arrives damaged or incorrect, email us at info@expressiontees.com with your order info and photos if helpful. We’ll help you sort it out.
How should I wash and dry my item to keep the print looking sharp?
Keep the message bold. Machine wash cold and inside out with like colors. Use only non-chlorine bleach when needed, tumble dry on medium, and do not iron or dry clean.
How is the design printed, and will the colors look exactly the same in person?
Each order is printed after it’s placed using professional heat-press equipment and plastisol transfers. We print, pack, and ship from Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, just outside Philadelphia, and artwork size and placement match the product’s digital mockup. Screens and garment colors can make shades look slightly different online than in person.
Who would appreciate Fred Hampton Was Murdered merchandise as a gift?
This is a meaningful gift for someone who studies or teaches civil-rights history, cares about community organizing, or speaks up about class inequality and policing. It also fits friends who like clothing that starts real conversations instead of small talk. If you know they’ll connect with the message, it’s a strong pick.