Hipster clothing giant American Apparel is no stranger to controversy. The company is known for its misogynistic advertisement campaigns and CEO. Their adds feature women, often of questionably young age, wearing near nothing in provocative poses. It's not surprising that there are entire petitions and websites attempting to dismantle their objectification of women and disrespect of women's sexuality.
However, in a promising move, American Apparel has teamed up with Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLADD) to release a new line of screen printed t-shirts, tanks, and undies to celebrate Pride month. Moreover, the advertising campaign for 2012 will feature the openly transgendered model Isis King (of ANTM fame).
However, in a promising move, American Apparel has teamed up with Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLADD) to release a new line of screen printed t-shirts, tanks, and undies to celebrate Pride month. Moreover, the advertising campaign for 2012 will feature the openly transgendered model Isis King (of ANTM fame).
I can totally appreciate how progressive this is. Fostering homosexual and transgendered acceptance in the mass media is nothing but positive! The American Apparel art director states: "It's time for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, to accept each other and thrive in harmony" Amen!
Here comes the "but". The advertisement campaign STILL features semi-nude over-sexualized women models.
Come ON American Apparel. This should be a campaign focused on equality of sexual orientation! If you are so dedicated to equality, why are the women your advertising still objectified? Why does 'thriving in harmony' still involve cheapening women's sexuality?
