Activism - (RED) https://www.red.org/reditorial/category/activism/ Wed, 09 Apr 2025 12:50:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 Celebrating World Health Day 2025: A Call to Action for Global Health https://www.red.org/reditorial/activism/celebrating-world-health-day-2025-a-call-to-action-for-global-health-dayo-okeniyi/ Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:29:00 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=7831 Today, on April 7th, we celebrate World Health Day, a day marked annually to honor the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO). This day serves as an important reminder of the ongoing global health challenges that demand our attention, including ongoing crises like HIV/AIDS. This year’s World Health Day... Read more »

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]]> Today, on April 7th, we celebrate World Health Day, a day marked annually to honor the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO). This day serves as an important reminder of the ongoing global health challenges that demand our attention, including ongoing crises like HIV/AIDS.

This year’s World Health Day theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” focuses on maternal and newborn health. Preventing mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding is a core objective in many of the HIV programs that (RED) helps support. Prioritizing women’s health and wellbeing not only ensures that they are receiving the care that they need, but also that their babies can remain HIV-free.

Now, more than ever, (RED)’s mission is critical to ensuring that everyone, everywhere can access the lifesaving treatment and care that they need.

In addition to raising awareness, World Health Day also marks an important milestone for our (RED)UCATOR program, which celebrates its fourth anniversary this year. Launched in 2021, the program has united a dynamic group of voices from across sports, entertainment, the culinary world, and beyond. Our special 2025 World Health Day video features a voiceover from one of our original (RED)UCATORS, Dayo Okeniyi, whose continued support plays a vital role in advancing our mission. We are deeply grateful for the contributions of all (RED)UCATORS, whose advocacy fuels the urgency of the fight for global health.

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]]> 10 Black Pioneers Who Have Shaped Public Health https://www.red.org/reditorial/activism/10-black-pioneers-who-have-shaped-public-health-black-history-month/ Tue, 25 Feb 2025 19:31:16 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=7664 Black History Month isn’t just about remembering—it’s about honoring those who have redefined the status quo and helped others thrive. From historic breakthroughs to ongoing advancements, Black pioneers have led groundbreaking research, fought for health equity, and inspired change in the field of public health. This month, we’re celebrating 10... Read more »

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]]> Black History Month isn’t just about remembering—it’s about honoring those who have redefined the status quo and helped others thrive. From historic breakthroughs to ongoing advancements, Black pioneers have led groundbreaking research, fought for health equity, and inspired change in the field of public health.

This month, we’re celebrating 10 fearless Black healthcare leaders who’ve paved the way for a healthier future for all.

Sandra Lindsay

Sandra Lindsay made history as the first person in the U.S. to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, turning a single moment into a movement. Lindsay was born and raised in Jamaica, where she found herself surrounded by strong women in healthcare. Inspired by them, Sandra built her career and education in nursing. However, she saw firsthand the devastating impact the pandemic had on underserved communities. Determined to make a change, she rolled up her sleeve—not only for her own health but to inspire others to trust the vaccine and be an advocate for health equity for all.

Sandra Lindsay Black History Month
Image Credit: CARE

Dr. John Nkengasong

As the founding director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. John Nkengasong has played a crucial role in helping Africa navigate COVID-19. Beyond leading pandemic response efforts, he empowers young African scientists and advocates for equitable vaccine access worldwide. Today,  he also serves as the Deputy Director for Global Health at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. John Nkengasong Black History Month
Image Credit: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Dázon Dixon Diallo

Founder and President of SisterLove, Inc., Dázon is a powerhouse in the fight for human rights. In 1989, she made history by establishing the first women’s HIV, sexual, and reproductive justice organization in the U.S. Southeast. With over 35 years of advocacy under her belt, she has been a relentless voice for health equity, earning countless awards along the way.

Dázon Dixon Diallo Black History Month
Image Credit: Sister Love

Louis W. Sullivan

Physician, educator, and civil rights pioneer, Louis W. Sullivan dedicated his career to improving public health in the U.S. In the mid-1970s, Sullivan helped establish the Morehouse School of Medicine and was appointed founding dean. He later served as Secretary of Health and Human Services, where he championed key health initiatives including endorsing needle exchange programs as part of an HIV/AIDS prevention strategy and pioneer treatments for sickle cell disease. Today, he leads the National Health Museum and the Sullivan Alliance and chairs the President’s Advisory Council on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Image Credit: US Department of Health and Human Services

Dr. Helene D. Gayle

Named one of Forbes’ “100 Most Powerful Women,” Dr. Helene D. Gayle is a physician and global health expert, who has dedicated her career to tackling HIV/AIDS and systemic health disparities. From the CDC to the Gates Foundation and CARE, she’s leading transformative change and exposing inequities that impact Black communities.  She currently serves as President of Spelman College and is a Board Member of our sister organization, the ONE Campaign.

Dr. Helene D. Gayle Black History Month
Image Credit: Spelman College

Marsha P. Johnson

Though best known as a key figure in the Stonewall Uprising and a fierce advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, Marsha P. Johnson also fought tirelessly for those affected by HIV/AIDS. In 1970, she co-founded one of the first safe spaces for transgender and homeless youth. After her own diagnosis in the 1980s, she became a vocal member of ACT UP, demanding urgent action on the AIDS crisis while leaving her mark on NYC’s vibrant art scene.

Marsha P. Johnson Black History Month
Image Credit: New York State

Vanessa Johnson

For decades, Vanessa Johnson has advocated for the rights of Black individuals living with HIV. As a woman living with HIV, Johnson shares her story and mentors other women to help them live with strength and resilience. She launched numerous organizations dedicated to uplifting and empowering women with HIV and also helped author Unspoken: Sexual, Romance, and Reproductive Freedom for Women Living with HIV, a groundbreaking report rewriting the narrative around HIV and women’s rights.

Vanessa Johnson Black History Month
Image Credit: PLHIV Documentary

Dr. Kapita Bila Minlangu

Dr. Kapita was at the forefront of Africa’s fight against HIV/AIDS in the 1980s as one of the first African scientists to identify the epidemic’s presence in Central Africa.  He co-led Project SIDA, which proved that HIV/AIDS was not exclusive to gay men. The discovery that individuals of all genders and sexual orientations were susceptible to infection was a crucial step in learning how HIV is transmitted. Though the project was cut short by the Civil War in 1991, it played a key part in shaping our understanding of HIV today.

Image Credit: Fondation Bila Minlangu Officiel

W.E.B. Du Bois

In the early 1900s, W.E.B. Du Bois was among the first to argue that racial health disparities weren’t just biological but rooted in social structures. His pioneering research highlighted the effects of racism and discrimination in healthcare, paving the way for future equity-driven policies and discussions.

W.E.B. Du Bois Black History Month
Image Credit: Library of Congress

Henrietta Lacks

Henrietta Lacks unknowingly made one of the greatest contributions to modern medicine. Her cells, taken without consent during cancer treatment in 1951, became the foundation for countless medical breakthroughs—including HIV/AIDS medications and COVID-19 vaccines. While her legacy is one of scientific triumph, it also serves as a powerful reminder of the injustices Black patients have endured in medical history.

These individuals prove that healthcare for all isn’t just about science—it’s about fighting the injustices that allow preventable and treatable diseases to thrive.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s honor their legacies by continuing their important work so that everyone, everywhere, can have access to the healthcare they deserve.

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]]> Announcing The DISCOVE(RED) Fashion Prize https://www.red.org/reditorial/fashion-beauty/discovered-fashion-prize/ Wed, 25 Sep 2024 03:14:36 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=6572 Monday at the Clinton Global Initiative annual meeting during UN General Assembly week in NYC, Laura Brown, Chair of the (RED) Creative Council, and global icon, Iman, announced the DISCOVE(RED) fashion prize. Launching early 2025 to fight AIDS and spotlight the next gen of fashion design from across Africa, stay... Read more »

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]]> Monday at the Clinton Global Initiative annual meeting during UN General Assembly week in NYC, Laura Brown, Chair of the (RED) Creative Council, and global icon, Iman, announced the DISCOVE(RED) fashion prize. Launching early 2025 to fight AIDS and spotlight the next gen of fashion design from across Africa, stay tuned over the coming weeks as we reveal more details and some of the incredible people involved!

“This is the next step of what we’ve done years ago with Vanity Fair and the PSAs,” said Iman. “It’s the passing of the baton to a younger generation.” Watch more below.

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]]> What is (PRODUCT)RED?: The Meaning Behind The Color https://www.red.org/reditorial/partnership/what-is-product-red-the-meaning-behind-the-color/ Mon, 09 Sep 2024 21:19:16 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=6497 What is (PRODUCT)ᴿᴱᴰ? You might have noticed (PRODUCT)ᴿᴱᴰ printed on the back of an iPhone, or a brand name inside red parentheses on anything from a red-colored wallet, to a kitchen device, to a clothing label, to a car… but what does it actually mean? These symbols indicate that a... Read more »

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]]> What is (PRODUCT)ᴿᴱᴰ?

You might have noticed (PRODUCT)ᴿᴱᴰ printed on the back of an iPhone, or a brand name inside red parentheses on anything from a red-colored wallet, to a kitchen device, to a clothing label, to a car… but what does it actually mean? These symbols indicate that a product is the result of a partnership between a prominent brand and (RED)—and it helps save lives.

Founded by Bono & Bobby Shriver in 2006 to fight AIDS, (RED) partners with the world’s most iconic brands and people to create products and experiences that raise money, heat and urgency for global health crises. So when you choose to buy a (RED) product, your choice helps fight AIDS and the injustices that enable pandemics to thrive.

What does a (RED) product look like?

Often, a (RED) partner will “turn” their existing product red in color. For example, when we launched our partnership with Lobos 1707 Tequila in 2023, the company released a (RED) version of their (LOBOS 1707)ᴿᴱᴰ Reposado Tequila in a stunning red bottle. Purchasers of this bottle know they are not only acquiring a beautiful and limited-edition bottle of a product they already love, but they are also helping sound the alarm on the fight to end AIDS. Through this partnership, Lobos 1707 has committed $100,000 to the Global Fund to help support life-saving health programs. 

Who does (RED) partner with?

(RED) partners sound the alarm on the injustices of global health, and fund programs that save lives. With their support, we are making significant strides in the fight to build strong and resilient health systems that fight AIDS. Since 2006, we’ve partnered with hundreds of brands across technology, fashion, housewares, financial services, life sciences, hospitality, telecommunications, and so many more.

A few of our current partners:

Apple
Apple
Bank of America
Bank of America
Beats by Dre
Beats by Dre
Fiat
Fiat
Nomasei
Nomasei
Thebe Magugu Logo
Thebe Magugu
Thebe Magugu
Vespa
Vespa
Zimmermann
Zimmermann

How Can You Join the (RED) Community?

Joining (RED) is easy! When you can, choose (RED) and your purchase will help support live-saving health programs. Visit our products page for a complete list of current (RED) products. If you share your (RED) product on your socials, make sure you tag us – we love to repost! And while you’re at it, follow (RED) on all of our social media platforms.

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]]> Meet The (RED) Creative Council https://www.red.org/reditorial/news/meet-the-red-creative-council-chaired-by-laura-brown/ Tue, 09 Jul 2024 23:48:00 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=6340 Introducing the new (RED) Creative Council, a group of brilliant individuals leading in their fields—from fashion to photography and film, design to journalism, management, and more—coming together to support (RED) in its mission to make preventable and treatable disease preventable and treatable for everyone. Chaired by Laura Brown, founder, LB... Read more »

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]]> Introducing the new (RED) Creative Council, a group of brilliant individuals leading in their fields—from fashion to photography and film, design to journalism, management, and more—coming together to support (RED) in its mission to make preventable and treatable disease preventable and treatable for everyone.

Chaired by Laura Brown, founder, LB Media, the (RED) Creative Council will help (RED) go bigger and bolder than ever before.

Founding members of The (RED) Creative Council include:

  • Cynthia Erivo: Cynthia Erivo is a Grammy® Emmy® and Tony® Award-winning actress, singer and producer, as well as an Academy Award®, Golden Globe®, and SAG nominee. She is set to star as Elphaba opposite Ariana Grande’s Glinda in Universal’s highly anticipated film adaptation of the hit musical WICKED from director Jon M. Chu.
  • Iman: Businesswoman, Supermodel, Philanthropist, and Founder of IMAN Cosmetics and IMAN Global Chic.
  • Inez & Vinoodh (Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin): Photographers and Co-Founders of Double Dutch Cash, Inez & Vinoodh have created iconic advertising campaigns for leading fashion and fragrance brands and have defined the prominent faces of our time. 
  • Kiernan Shipka: Film and Television Actress, known for roles in AMC’s Mad Men, NETFLIX’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, among many others. 
  • Thebe Magugu: South African born designer and LVMH Prize Winner in 2019, Thebe launched his namesake brand, Thebe Magugu, in 2016. 
  • Karla Welch: Stylist and Founder / Creator of the x karla brand, Karla is also the CEO and co-CMO of Period., the sustainable period underwear company she co-founded.
  • Murray Bartlett: Film and Television Actor, known for his roles in White Lotus, The Last of Us, amongst many others, completing his leading role in Hulu’s limited-series Nine Perfect Strangers and cast in the upcoming film At The Sea.
  • Storm Reid: Actress, Producer, current student at USC, Founder of A SEED & WINGS Productions, and creator of the brand ArashiBlu, Storm recently earned her first Emmy award for “Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series” for her work as Riley in The Last of Us.
  • Connie Britton: Film and Television Actress, known for roles in FX’s American Horror Story, the NBC/DirectTV drama series, Friday Night Lights, and many more.
  • Allison Williams: Actress, Activist and Producer, Allison stars in and is the executive producer of Blumhouse’s M3GAN, and is known for her roles in GET OUT, the series “GIRLS”, and more. 
  • Sherrie Silver: Creative Director, Choreographer, Dancer and Founder of Rwanda-based Sherrie Silver Foundation, known for Childish Gambino’s music video ‘This is America’ for which she won the MTV VMA for Best Choreography in 2018. 
  • AB+DM (Ahmad Barber and Donté Maurice): Award-Winning fashion photographer duo, capturing definitive imagery of key figures in fashion, film, celebrity and culture. 
  • Lake Bell: Actress, Screenwriter and Director, known for her roles in No Strings Attached, No Escape, and more, she has also written and directed films such as Worst Enemy, In a World…, among others. 
  • Sindiso Khumalo: South African born designer and 2020 LVMH Prize Finalist, her eponymous brand, Sindiso Khumalo, launched in 2014. 
  • Es Devlin: Artist and Stage Designer, Es Devlin’s canvas ranges from public sculptures and kinetic stage designs to Olympic ceremonies, Superbowl half-time shows and more.
  • Jason Weinberg: Co-Founder of Untitled Entertainment, representing a wide variety of renowned actors, writers, directors, and musicians.
  • Arianne Phillips: A multi-dimensional visual artist, she brings her exemplary vision to film, fashion, theater, opera, music, and media. 
  • Peyton Dix: Culture Writer, Brand Strategist & Social Consultant, Peyton’s work has been featured in Elle, Vice, W Magazine, New York Magazine, and more.

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]]> Support (RED) Runners Taking on the Boston Marathon® https://www.red.org/reditorial/news/support-red-runners-taking-on-the-boston-marathon-fundraiser-bank-of-america/ Fri, 22 Mar 2024 21:43:28 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=4603 We’re less than one month away from the Boston Marathon®—widely considered to be one of the most difficult annual marathon routes due to a stretch of difficult hills toward the end. However, those hills aren’t stopping our amazing (RED) Runners from taking on the challenge. Four individuals have been training... Read more »

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]]> We’re less than one month away from the Boston Marathon®—widely considered to be one of the most difficult annual marathon routes due to a stretch of difficult hills toward the end. However, those hills aren’t stopping our amazing (RED) Runners from taking on the challenge. Four individuals have been training for months to run the marathon in support of (RED), raising money for life-saving health programs in communities that need it most.

The 128th Boston Marathon is presented by (RED) partner Bank of America. Through the Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program, the Boston Athletic Association has provided invitational entries for our runners to raise money on behalf of (RED).

Who will be lacing up their shoes on April 15th to run the 128th Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America in support of (RED)? Here’s the all-star roster:

Phoebe Robinson

Phoebe Robinson is (RED)UCATOR, standup comedian, best-selling author, producer, actress, and publisher. She is the author of the essay collections “You Can’t Touch My Hair,” “Everything’s Trash, But It’s Okay,” and “Please Don’t Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes,” and, in 2020, she launched her own imprint, Tiny Reparations Books.

Check out her marathon announcement video:

Jeffrey Mc Eachern

Jeffrey is a U.K.-based Peloton Tread instructor. On World AIDS Day 2023, he teamed up with (RED) for special World AIDS Day class on Pelton Tread. Learn more about Jeffrey by watching his 26.2 second Interview or his recent Instagram Live with (RED).

Dan Churchill

Dan is a NYC-based performance chef and published author with a Masters in Exercise Science. He is the Executive Chef at The Osprey restaurant at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, and the CEO + Founder of the production company The Epic Table. A regular on the Drew Barrymore Show and GMA, he is known for colorful cooking designed to be easy, inexpensive, and highly nutritious, as well as his dedication to fitness and human performance.

Belle Zelazny

Belle is Partnerships Associate at (RED), helping build relationships with a wide range of brands to help develop strategic marketing initiatives. Originally from Chicago, Belle received a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Advertising with a minor in Entrepreneurship from Michigan State University and she currently resides in New York City. This is her first marathon! Check out some of her favorite marathon training tips.

With the Boston Marathon less than one month away, our runners are in the final stretch of training and officially counting down to race day. We’ll see you at the finish line!

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]]> (RED)UCATOR Phoebe Robinson to Run Boston Marathon for (RED)! https://www.red.org/reditorial/activism/reducator-phoebe-robinson-to-run-boston-marathon-for-red/ Mon, 20 Nov 2023 19:27:32 +0000 https://live-red005.pantheonsite.io/?p=2910 Comedian, actress, writer, and (RED)UCATOR Phoebe Robinson is lacing up her running shoes to raise money for (RED)! Last week, Phoebe announced that she’ll be running the Boston Marathon on April 15th, 2024 with the goal of raising $10K. To sponsor Phoebe and contribute to (RED)’s fight against AIDS, click... Read more »

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]]> Comedian, actress, writer, and (RED)UCATOR Phoebe Robinson is lacing up her running shoes to raise money for (RED)! Last week, Phoebe announced that she’ll be running the Boston Marathon on April 15th, 2024 with the goal of raising $10K.

To sponsor Phoebe and contribute to (RED)’s fight against AIDS, click on the fundraising link below. And don’t miss her exclusive (and hilarious!) interview with (RED)’s own Chief Communications & Campaigns Office, Huw Davies. Go Phoebe!

Donate Now
@red @Phoebe Robinson ♬ original sound – (RED)

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]]> Meet Our Newest (RED)UCATOR: Chef Tolu Eros https://www.red.org/reditorial/activism/new-reducator-chef-eros/ Thu, 13 Jul 2023 16:25:20 +0000 https://red.org/?p=1579 Months shy of graduating from University of Wolverhampton, Tolu “Eros” Erogbogbo took a leap of faith. At age 21, he decided to follow his love for food, drop out of college and return home to Lagos, Nigeria to open his very own restaurant. “My food has always brought people together,” said Erogbogbo.... Read more »

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]]> Months shy of graduating from University of Wolverhampton, Tolu “Eros” Erogbogbo took a leap of faith. At age 21, he decided to follow his love for food, drop out of college and return home to Lagos, Nigeria to open his very own restaurant.

“My food has always brought people together,” said Erogbogbo. “And then I realized that food was not only my passion, but my purpose.” 

Today, Erogbogbo is known around the world by a different name: Chef Eros or “The Billionaire Chef.” His cooking has taken him from Lagos to Los Angeles where he now works as the Executive Chef and Founder of ILÉ PDR, a West African private dining experience in Hollywood and ILÉ Bistro, an elevated casual offshoot of ILÉ PDR, which debuted inside Citizen Public Market March 2023.

Last month, Chef Eros added another title to his impressive resume: (RED)UCATOR, where he will use his global platform to amplify (RED)’s mission to fight AIDS and the injustices that allow it to thrive. 

(RED) and Chef Eros have exciting collaborations in development, but the work has already started with Chef Eros using his private dining experience in Los Angeles as a platform to share (RED)’s mission.

“It is such an honor to be the first African Chef to join the (RED) family. I have always dreamt of a day when my work could be used for good and to make an impact. Now that I am able to use my voice as a (RED)UCATOR and to support what (RED) is doing, it is such an exciting moment for me,” said Chef Eros. “We are just getting started!”

Chef Eros joins fellow (RED)UCATORS, including athlete Carl Nassib, actors Damson Idris, Dayo Okeniyi, and Lexi Underwood, as well as longtime supporters, chef Hong Thaimee, actor Javier Muñoz and comedian Phoebe Robinson.

“We are honored to have Chef Eros as part of our exceptional group of (RED)UCATORS. His creativity, passion and culinary talent is going to supercharge our work and bring a new level of awareness and urgency to our fight against AIDS,” said Jennifer Lotito, President and COO, (RED). 

Over the past 18 years, (RED) and its family of partners including: Apple, Anova, Ember, Fiat Panasonic and many more, have generated over $760 million for the Global Fund and impacted 290 million lives. (RED)UCATORS like Chef Eros are invaluable to helping (RED) cook up incredible activations and awareness that help save lives. 

Stay tuned for more exciting details and follow Chef Eros @THEBILLIONARECHEF to learn more about his work and support of (RED)!

Follow Chef Eros on Instagram Watch Chef Ero’s Instagram Live With President & COO Jen Lotito

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]]> Meet the (RED)UCATORS! https://www.red.org/reditorial/activism/meet-the-reducators-celebrity-ambassadors/ Thu, 07 Apr 2022 18:51:09 +0000 https://red.org/?p=1859 Today, on World Health Day, we’re thrilled to announce that Damson Idris, Dayo Okeniyi, and Lexi Underwood have joined forces with (RED) to help raise awareness about the importance of building and supporting health systems around the world.  Damson, Dayo, and Lexi join longtime supporters, Javier Muñoz and Phoebe Robinson... Read more »

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]]> Today, on World Health Day, we’re thrilled to announce that Damson Idris, Dayo Okeniyi, and Lexi Underwood have joined forces with (RED) to help raise awareness about the importance of building and supporting health systems around the world.  Damson, Dayo, and Lexi join longtime supporters, Javier Muñoz and Phoebe Robinson as ‘(RED)UCATORS’.

(RED)’s newly announced (RED)UCATORS are stepping up to act as ambassadors for the fight against pandemics, using their global platforms to help sound the alarm on the injustice of global health emergencies and champion proven programs that save lives. Each (RED)UCATOR is an inspiring change-maker within their respective communities, who is committed to sharing and supporting (RED)’s mission with their audiences and engaging in (RED) programming, campaigns and education through 2022. 

Damson Idris

“Providing HIV treatment to a sick child, or vaccinating a first-responder in Abuja isn’t charity, it’s called hope. We all have a responsibility to help make the world a better place. We all must be part of the solution.”

Dayo Okeniyi

“In the United States, COVID vaccines are abundant; over 75 percent of Americans have received at least one COVID vaccine. But in my home country of Nigeria, access is scarce and less than 10% of Nigerians have received a single shot.We won’t end the threat of COVID anywhere unless we end it everywhere. That’s why I’m so honored to use my platform to help shine a light on the health injustices that so many Africans face.”

Lexi Underwood

“I am committed to using my voice and platform to advocate for issues and injustices impacting vulnerable populations across the globe. Through supporting (RED) and working with my fellow (RED)UCATORS, my goal is to spark peer dialogue, encourage action, and create sustainable solutions to help end pandemics and health emergencies for all people; regardless of race, color, socio-economic status, religion, gender, age, or sexual orientation.”

Javier Muñoz

“As someone living with HIV, a cancer survivor, and a passionate activist, when I talk about the importance of equitable access to health care, I’m not just speaking words, I’m living them. Whether it’s fighting AIDS or COVID, I’m proud to continue my work with (RED) to keep pushing for equitable access to testing, treatment, and vaccines for everyone, everywhere.”

Phoebe Robinson

“We do not choose our circumstances in life, our privilege or lack of it. But we can choose to make the world a better, healthier place. I’m proud to support (RED), and alongside my fellow (RED)UCATORS, help turn up the fight against pandemics. AIDS and COVID better watch out because we are coming to cancel you!”

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]]> Remembering Archbishop Desmond Tutu https://www.red.org/reditorial/activism/remembering-desmond-tutu/ Fri, 07 Jan 2022 18:58:22 +0000 https://red.org/?p=1899 By Gayle Smith, President and CEO of ONE In my lifetime I’ve had the privilege and honor to meet American presidents and leaders from all over the world, but Archbishop Desmond Tutu commanded more authority than any person I have ever known. His was borne not of faith, nor of... Read more »

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]]> By Gayle Smith, President and CEO of ONE

In my lifetime I’ve had the privilege and honor to meet American presidents and leaders from all over the world, but Archbishop Desmond Tutu commanded more authority than any person I have ever known. His was borne not of faith, nor of religious hierarchy or the status of the positions he held; it emerged from who he was.

He was fierce, and never hesitated to call out injustice, whether to comrade or foe. He was fair – always willing and able to engage with, listen to, and even learn from those with whom he disagreed. He was hilarious, not by design but by nature. And he radiated, with every ounce of his tiny and relentlessly energetic self, the belief that love can, does, and will conquer hate.

A troubled world now has a big hole in it where The Arch used to be. But the world also has the opportunity to honor a man who spent every hour of his life fighting, arguing, cajoling and advocating for each of us to play to the side of our better angels. In his memory, and in our gratitude, may we all practice just a little bit of The Arch, every day – not just because he was one of the best humans ever to grace this Earth, but because who he was is who we must be.

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]]> Phoebe Robinson Feels ‘Hopeful for the Future of Blackness’ This Black History Month https://www.red.org/reditorial/activism/phoebe-robinson-black-history-month-interview/ Fri, 26 Feb 2021 17:36:59 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=4699 We’re so grateful to close out Black History Month with a special interview with multi-talented stand-up comedian, New York Times best-selling writer, actress and (RED) Ambassador Phoebe Robinson. If you follow Phoebe on Instagram, or have watched, read, or listened to any of her work, you know about her fierce... Read more »

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]]> We’re so grateful to close out Black History Month with a special interview with multi-talented stand-up comedian, New York Times best-selling writer, actress and (RED) Ambassador Phoebe Robinson. If you follow Phoebe on Instagram, or have watched, read, or listened to any of her work, you know about her fierce commitment to amplifying Black voices and promoting diversity. This week, we spoke with Phoebe about the meaning of Black History Month, her favorite Black-owned businesses and Black authors, and her new imprint, Tiny Reparations Books.

(RED): What does Black History Month mean to you?

PR: It’s a celebration of Blackness, pioneers, and all the ways we have built this country. But Black history needs to be taught year-round because Black history is American history. So I look at this month to feel joyful, proud, and hopeful for the future of Blackness. 

(RED): What inspired you to start Tiny Reparations, and how’s it going?

PR: I love TV and books and always thought both industries could do more in terms of quality representation instead of tokenized representation. I always wanted to have my own imprint and star in TV shows. And seeing the power of the platform that “2 Dope Queens” provided for women, people of color, and folx in the queer community just fuels me to do more. Overall, I think it’s going well. I’m working with amazingly talented people such as Jose Acevedo, my Head of Development at Tiny Reparations and my lead editor Amber Oliver at Tiny Reparations Books. We are building a vision together and I can’t wait for people to see what we’re working on. We’re just so thrilled to be a part of the conversation and a part of the movement that’s pushing things forward.

(RED): Tell us about your favorite Black-owned businesses (and is there one that (RED) just must ask to consider being a partner with us?)

PR: I love Buttah Skin, in particular their cleanser and vibe brush. I swear by their products and Beyoncé shouted this company out, so ya know, you can’t go wrong there. Love Tracee Ellis Ross’ Pattern Beauty. Sewit Sium‘s jewelry is stunning. So is Lorraine West jewelry! Food-wise, I love A Dozen Cousins bean line. Yum!!!

(RED): Which Black authors do you love most, and which of their books should people be reading, and why? 

PR: Oh gosh! So many to choose from! I love Samantha Irby. All her books are hilarious and honest. Love Austin Channing Brown’s “I’m Still Here,” Ijeoma Oluo’s “Mediocre,” Robert Jones, Jr.’s “The Prophets,” Michelle Obama’s “Becoming,” Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman,” and Leah Johnson’s “You Should See Me in a Crown.” All amazing books. Love them. Obviously, the importance of reading Black authors is that they are insanely talented, spark conversation, and make us feel. Black authors should be read year-round and not just in February. And people should read more than books about race by Black authors. We laugh, fall in love, have families, go on adventures. We live full, exciting, delicious lives and weave beautiful stories. We’re continually blessing the world with stunning writing that deserves to be consumed routinely. 

(RED): Finally… if there is one thing you want to get off of your chest this Black History Month, what would it be?

PR: I think I just want Black people to be able to rest. We are asked by society to do so much, be perfect, be excellent, to represent our race and I would just like us to take several moments to sleep and take care of ourselves. To pour back into ourselves rest, peace, positive energy, connection with friends and community. Black History Month should be more than just remembered the dead; it should be a renewal to make the most for those who are living. 

The post Phoebe Robinson Feels ‘Hopeful for the Future of Blackness’ This Black History Month appeared first on RED.

]]> 5 Ways to Join Partners in Celebrating Black History Month https://www.red.org/reditorial/activism/join-red-partners-in-celebrating-black-history-month/ Thu, 11 Feb 2021 15:29:22 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=5105 Black History Month is officially in full swing and a number of (RED) partners have created virtual opportunities to help us all celebrate and learn from home.  Here are just a few of the many meaningful ways to join (RED) partners in honoring Black culture this month: We’re proud to... Read more »

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]]> Black History Month is officially in full swing and a number of (RED) partners have created virtual opportunities to help us all celebrate and learn from home. 

Here are just a few of the many meaningful ways to join (RED) partners in honoring Black culture this month:

  1. Join Amazon in supporting entrepreneurship and innovation in the black community by buying Black, or let your Amazon (ECHO)RED teach you about Black history facts—just say “Alexa, open Black History Facts”
  1. Balmain Creative Director Olivier Rousteing has partnered with Farfetch and African media platform Nataal on an editorial that pays tribute to the black style icons who inspire him. Check out the gorgeous photo series and read about the cultural significance of Black style.
  1. Put your iPhone (PRODUCT)RED to good use this month and explore updated Black History Month collections and exclusive content across the App Store, Apple News, the Apple TV app, Apple Books, Apple Podcasts, Apple Maps Guides, Apple Fitness+, and more! So. Much. Amazing. Content.
  1. Can’t make it to your favorite museum this year? Starbucks has teamed up with the National Museum of African American History and Culture to help you learn, engage, and volunteer online. Deepen your understanding of the African American experience through the museum’s online offerings.
  1. Take a few minutes out of your day to watch Salesforce’s #WokeWednesday: Civil Rights 2.0, a powerful fireside chat from earlier this month with DeRay Mckesson, Civil Rights Activist, author, podcaster, and a leading voice in the Black Lives Matter movement.

We’re proud to partner with these companies (and so many others) who share in our commitment to equality and honoring the impact of Black culture not just during February–but all year long.

The post 5 Ways to Join Partners in Celebrating Black History Month appeared first on RED.

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