Human Rights Campaign and Kenneth Cole Join to Help Elect Equality

LGBT rights group, fashion designer unveil "DeVOTEd for equality"
Jun 4, 2012 7:00 PM ET

(3BL Media) June 4, 2012 - Today the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, unveiled its latest collaboration with fashion designer and longtime activist Kenneth Cole as part of the designer’s AWEARNESS campaign.  This collaboration aims to encourage Americans to support LGBT equality at the polls this election cycle.

"As Americans, our vote is our voice,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "By lending his voice and retail prowess to the fight for LGBT equality, Kenneth Cole is not only sparking a conversation about increased voter participation, but also reminding Americans that equality is always in style.  We are grateful for Kenneth Cole’s continued support for the LGBT community and his commitment to full equality in America.”

“Our brand’s message next season is a call to action to, ‘wear your voice,’ said Kenneth Cole.  “In support of HRC, we ask: ‘where’s your voice?’”

Public support for LGBT equality is at an all-time high in America, yet many elected officials have yet to fully embrace and advocate for fairness and equality for LGBT people. This is the 4th collaboration between HRC and Kenneth Cole. 100% of the net-proceeds  from the sale of this limited-edition T-shirt will be donated to HRC. “Vote Equality” signage will appear in all 97 of the Kenneth Cole retail and outlet stores nationwide during the month of June. In addition, Kenneth Cole stores in three key markets will host events benefiting HRC on June 23rd from 4-6pm, with 20% of the night’s proceeds going to HRC.

Events will take place at the following retail locations:

NYC, Fifth Ave Store
Philadelphia, Walnut Street
San Francisco, San Francisco Centre

Retailing for $35, the limited-edition t-shirt comes in sizes XS-2X and will be available at HRC Stores in Provincetown, MA; San Francisco, CA; Washington, D.C.; and shop.hrc.org .

Part of HRC's designer collaboration series, Kenneth Cole joins a long list of designers including Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Perry Ellis, Alex & Chloe, Nike and American Apparel all committed to pushing equality and fashion forward.