For Sean Ramon Montague, entrepreneurship is cultural preservation in motion.
A 1992 alumnus of Howard University and graduate of the Howard University Book Publishing Institute, Montague is the founder of Ethnicitees, LLC. This educational apparel brand has spent nearly four decades turning Black history into wearable art.
Founded in 1990 and based in Randallstown, Maryland, Ethnicitees designs and markets pioneering “Cultural Wearables” — artist-created apparel featuring Montague’s original linocut illustrations of Black heritage legends on the front, accompanied by detailed biographies on the back. Each piece serves as both an artistic expression and an educational tool.
“For 36 years, Ethnicitees has raised awareness of and preserved Black legacy and culture,” Montague says. “Our mission is proving that Black History is World History.”
The idea for Ethnicitees was born from frustration. As a former Baltimore City art teacher, Montague saw firsthand how disconnected many students were from their own heritage. Rather than accept that gap, he created a platform that fused education, artistry, and entrepreneurship. His shirts became conversation starters — tools for learning that could travel far beyond classroom walls.
Ethnicitees covers a wide spectrum of Black history and culture — from Ancient African civilizations and royal dynasties to abolitionists, women’s suffrage leaders, civil rights pioneers, sports legends, and jazz icons. Over the years, the brand has sold products globally and partnered with museums and cultural institutions nationwide. Its customer base spans generations and communities, reflecting the universal relevance of the stories it tells.
Montague credits his experience at Howard University with strengthening his focus and commitment to cultural preservation. His artistic training at MICA and professional work with Black Classic Press reinforced his belief that heritage must be actively protected and promoted.
One of the greatest challenges he faces today is navigating a political climate that he believes threatens to erase or minimize Black history. Some institutions that once partnered freely now operate under increased scrutiny or shifting priorities. But rather than retreat, Montague sees the moment as fuel.
“It strengthens our resolve,” he says. “We’ve always fought against efforts to erase Black culture.”
Ethnicitees has been featured on MSNBC’s “The ReidOut,” HSN, QVC, ABC 7, WJZ-TV, Fox News DC, DC News Now, Spotify, and numerous national and international platforms — evidence of the brand’s enduring cultural relevance.
For Montague, entrepreneurship is directly tied to economic empowerment.
“Entrepreneurship is the key to Black wealth and legacy,” he says. “We have to rebuild Black businesses and wealth for current and future generations.”
He believes ownership ensures that stories, resources, and economic power remain within the community. After nearly 40 years in business, Ethnicitees stands as proof that mission-driven enterprises can endure across changing markets and political climates.
Looking ahead, Montague sees Ethnicitees continuing to lead in preserving Black history through artistry and innovation, expanding its reach while staying rooted in its founding purpose.
His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: find your niche, develop an innovative product, and be your brand’s strongest advocate.
“Believe in your brand,” he says. “Network always. And never stop promoting what you’ve built.”
As alumni gather and communities celebrate legacy, Sean Ramon Montague reminds us that history is not just remembered — it is worn, shared, and carried forward.
Website: www.ethniciteesllc.org
Instagram: @ethniciteesllc2969
Harold Booker Jr.
Harold Booker Jr. is the founder and principal of DrewJenk Consulting, a boutique firm that specializes in project management, technology, and community engagement. He is also a frequent contributor to the Baltimore Times, writing about arts, culture, and social issues that connect personal history with community impact.