We all know U2. The band has been putting out music for the past two decades, and without doubt (unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for the past twenty years), you’ve heard a song or three.
At the very least, you’ll likely recognize this influential group’s front man—he of the ubiquitous rose colored shades—Bono. However, this Irish rock star is interested in more than just making a fashion statement. This year, in a field of nearly 200 nominees, Bono was recognized by the Nobel Prize Committee for his efforts to help with AIDS relief in Africa, as well as other impoverished nations, with the Global Fund.
And not one to rest on his laurels, Bono, along with Bobby Shriver of DATA (data.org: Debt AIDS Trade in Africa), has developed (Product) Red. The project has partnered with various brands, including American Express, Emporio Armani and Converse to create (Red) products. A portion of the proceeds from each (Red) item purchased will be donated to the fight to end HIV/AIDS in Africa.
With each purchase of a (Red) product, a company will use a share of its profits to buy and distribute medicine to those suffering in Africa. In May, $1.25 million was sent through the initiative to Rwanda to help fund health programs in the struggling nation. Figures have only gone up in recent months, with an additional $5 million sent within the week. It is Bono’s hope, as well as those involved with the project and the Global Fund, that the more we as consumers take part in and support (Red) products, the more good they can do.
This holiday season marks the perfect time for all the Tango Divas of the world to join the (Red) cause, and give as well as receive. (Red) has partnered with a bevy of companies known for their popularity and style to create products that will simultaneously look good and do good.
For those obsessed with having the newest Motorola RAZR (and who isn’t nowadays?), scrap your plans of buying the ultra-lux—and ultra expensive—Dolce & Gabbana gold RAZR, and opt instead for the (Red) RAZR. Not only is it impossibly chic, it’s even more hip because it’s helping a truly important cause.
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