How to support Dressember when it's not December
When you think of Dressember, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Most likely, it’s our annual style challenge where advocates pledge to wear dresses or ties during December to raise awareness of human trafficking. But did you know you can stay involved in the fight for freedom and support Dressember year-round as well? While we have several exciting events throughout the year, there are also various ways you can help support Dressember from your own city over the summer.
Be a social advocate
Stay in touch with us on social media this summer by sharing our posts with your friends and followers. Throughout the year we use platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to share human trafficking statistics, survivor stories, blog posts, and more. Sharing these posts on your own social media pages is a great way to continue raising awareness about human trafficking.
Read all about it!
Join the Dressember Book Club, an annual digital book club where advocates from around the world come together to read and discuss stories of human trafficking. The summer book club is a great way to stay in touch with fellow advocates while allowing yourself to grow as an advocate. In the past, our advocates have come together to discuss books like Sold and A Long Way Gone that reflect on the different aspects of human trafficking. In the “Dress-summer” Book Club, you’ll have the chance to learn more about human trafficking while connecting with the Dressember community.
Let freedom ring
If you’re in the USA, give your Fourth of July party a Dressember theme! After all, Dressember is all about freedom, and there’s no better time to celebrate freedom in America than on Independence Day. If your original July Fourth plans included a potluck, ask your guests to make a donation to Dressember instead of bringing a dish. Or, if you have a talent like crafting, painting, sewing, or floral arranging, consider giving a class at your holiday party in exchange for a donation. (Did you know Dressember has a House Party Kit? This PDF will provide you with everything you need to host a Dressember Party at your home, including invitations).
“Victims of injustice in our world do not need our spasms of passion but our long obedience in the same direction”
A Labor of love
Speaking of summer holidays, Labor Day might mark the unofficial end of summer for many, but the holiday was originally created to celebrate the supposed end of unethical working conditions in America. Many still believe that the unethical work environments brought about by the Industrial Revolution were abolished long ago, but as advocates, we know that those in human trafficking situations suffer in hazardous work environments every day. Labor Day is the perfect time to remind your friends and followers that those affected by human trafficking still suffer from unsanitary, unsafe, and unfair working conditions, even in the United States. Encourage your followers to get involved with Dressember in honor of those who are suffering on a day where so many celebrate freedom.
Donate your big day
Summer is officially wedding season, and if you have your big day planned for this summer, consider dedicating your registry to anti-trafficking work like Dressember. Weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays are a great opportunity to make an impact. Creating a linked Facebook fundraiser with your campaign page and asking for donations to Dressember in lieu of gifts is a great, hassle-free way to raise money to fight human trafficking.
Take your fashion in an ethical direct-ion
We’re all for ethical shopping, including consignment stores, but let’s face it, there are some things you simply cannot thrift. We’re talking about swimwear. Are you in need of a new ethically-made swimsuit for the summer? Look no further than Dressember’s ethical fashion directory! The directory allows you to narrow down your search based on category and price range, and you can rest assured that you’re purchasing from vetted brands that meet our ethical standards.
Busy as a bee?
Summer can move by pretty quickly, and advocacy isn’t always the first thing on your mind. We get that! By joining the Dressember Collective, you can set up a recurring monthly donation. You make the donation, and Dressember will take care of the rest. Now you can relax by the pool while also making a difference!
Advocacy is a 24/7 profession, and Dressember works year-round to rescue and defend those affected by human trafficking. Your support throughout the year is what enables Dressember to fulfill our mission of creating a world without slavery. With a bit of creativity and persistence, you can make a huge difference when you continue your Dressember advocacy this Dress-summer!
About the Author
Victoria Shircliffe is a superfan of the television show "Once Upon a Time," and when she’s not working at the public library, she’s travelling across the country to fan conventions! She recently graduated from Bellarmine University with a degree in English and Marketing Communication and hopes to pursue a Masters in English. She is passionate about feminism, fairy tales, and fighting human trafficking.