LGBT equality work, especially in the places where it is most needed, is massively underfunded.
From Thursday 25 June, 825 Lush shops across the world – including Lush, Lower Precinct, Coventry – will kick off a two week campaign for general acceptance and equality of LGBT Rights across the world as human rights. Shops will be asking their customers “What if your love was illegal?” and encouraging them to post selfies with the campaign’s fundraising product – a gold soap scented with Lush’s Love fragrance – telling the world why they think #GayIsOK.
By purchasing the aptly named Love soap (£4.00 for a 120g bar), you are supporting grassroots LGBT groups fighting daily for equality all over the world. The #GayIsOK campaign aims to raise £250,000 through profits of the soap; £50,000 will be donated outright to All Out for their campaigning efforts across the world. With the rest, Lush will be inviting LGBT groups to apply for grants up to £10,000 via All Out’s website.
Alessandro Commisso from Lush comments:
“Our staff and our customers feel very passionate about LGBT issues – and the time has come to make a global statement. Gay rights are not an option: they’re basic human rights.”
All Out Executive Director, Andre Banks, adds:
“All Out’s 2.2 million members organize every day to build a world where no person has to sacrifice their freedom or dignity because of who they are or who they love. Thanks to Lush, we’ll make sure that millions more know about this human rights crisis – and provide desperately needed funds to groups fighting for love and equality around the world.”
The #GayIsOK campaign will feature in 825 Lush shops and Lush Online from 25 June – 5 July 2015, kicking off with a 24 hour marathon of activities across the globe. The campaign aims to reach 10million people on social media by 5 July with its message #GayIsOK