You could say that we’re big fans of Instagram, but we’re even bigger fans when the social media platform is used for a good cause. April is Sexual Assault Awareness month, and women and men in over 90 countries are wearing red lipstick and tagging #redmylips to raise awareness about sexual violence. The non-profit aims to help change the stigma surrounding assault victims and squash rape misconceptions by being loud — with red lips.
@mrsjbaranick: This ‘grammer lays down the basis of the campaign for us all: “Red My Lips is a global campaign to raise awareness of the damaging impacts of victim blaming and rape culture by wearing red lipstick for the entire month of April.”
@kirahismyname: The campaign, started by assault survivor Danielle Tansino, aims to help people understand that rape is not something that is ever invited, whether by the way a woman dresses or how much makeup she has on, and is supported by “warriors” — those who will help speak out against sexual violence.
@meowieface: “Sexual violence is NOT a WOMEN’s ISSUE. It is a HUMAN ISSUE. It affects us ALL. Raising awareness on sexual violence and combatting rape myths and victim blaming. Let’s demonstrate solidarity and support for ALL survivors throughout April.”
@rozhana.b: Founder Danielle Tansino was raped when she was 29 years old by a friend of a friend. When she tried to do something about it, she was told by a female district attorney that “jurors don’t like women who drink.”
@emazontv: At that moment, Tansino said she realized, “It’s not ‘the system’ that fails victims of sexual violence… we all do. We are the system.”
@thegreenflame: Now a social worker and activist, Tansino is raising awareness about victim blaming and encouraging women everywhere to break the silence.
@redmylipsorg: “Educate our children and protect our tomorrow.”
@lyricsoullayphotogrphy: “By coming forward and standing up in speaking out we as a community can make the change to stop this horrible abuse.”
@nzaussie: “Shine a light in the darkness so those who need us can find their way… ”
@camillaada: “It’s not about vanity – it’s about visibility. RAPISTS are responsible for rape, not short skirts, drinks, or makeup.”
@sunburnt_sky: The nonprofit is currently looking to raise $50,000 to develop educational materials and kits and support outreach.
@jayebeebaby: “Both men and women all across the world suffer through this everyday, ‘No’ does not mean ‘convince me’ it means NO!”
@ablackwell93: You can help by donating funds yourself or rallying your troops and challenging everyone to donate just $5.
Do your part by showing your support for @redmylipsorg with #redmylips, and if you need help choosing the right shade of red for your skin tone, check out our guide here.
Share your lips with us by dropping us a link in the comments below!
