Safety Pin

In the wake of the U.S. presidential election many people have taken to wearing a safety pin on their clothing. The purpose of this symbol is not to push a political agenda or to protest the results but simply to show support for those who have been left feeling afraid. Many women, Muslims, immigrants, members of the LGBTQ community, and other minorities are concerned that the recent events in our country will threaten their way of life. Beyond the threat of legislative action, societal backlash against these groups has been substantial. Inspired by a similar campaign in the U.K. after the "Brexit" vote, wearing a safety pin displays your solidarity with the victims of this backlash and represents your commitment to fighting back against inequality and hatred.

The power of icons should be familiar to all of us in the design community. A simple symbol gives people something to stand behind; a unified representation of a common message: that we will stand together against hate, no matter what. I encourage everyone who believes in this message to wear their safety pin with pride, and to live by its message.