In the months after I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I became hyper aware of the different organizations associated with the disease, from those supporting patients without healthcare to others elevating awareness about beauty product ingredients associated with cancer. But the one that stood out the most was Breast Cancer Action, thanks to their “Think Before You Pink” campaign. This campaign, which takes pinkwashing head on, resonated so much with me, I made sure to include BCA as a resource in my book.
So I was pretty excited when they asked me to be a guest on their podcast to discuss how storytelling can promote powerful change. While patients may share similar surgeries and treatments, individual experiences vary greatly. Recognizing this is vital in expanding perspectives and illuminating areas in need of change.
The podcast features BCA’s Executive Director, Dr. Krystal Redman who speaks to “how storytelling can propel the breast cancer movement, and how to ethically engage in sharing personal narratives for political change.” Give it a listen and learn more at www.Bcaaction.org and on the socials @bcaction
Think Before You Pink
Please think before you spend money on products with pink ribbons on them. Despite marketing messaging, the money doesn’t always go where you think it does. Asking for a survivor: Me.
Critical Questions for Conscious Consumers Does any money from this purchase go to support breast cancer programs? How much, and is it enough?
What organization will get the money? What will they do with the funds, and how do these programs turn the tide of the breast cancer epidemic?
Is there a “cap” on the amount the company will donate? And has this maximum donation already been met? Can you tell?
Does this purchase put you or someone you love at risk for exposure to toxins linked to breast cancer? What is the company doing to ensure that its products are not contributing to the breast cancer epidemic?
Pinkwasher |pink’-wah-sher| noun
A company or organization that claims to care about breast cancer by promoting a pink ribbon product, but at the same time produces, manufactures and/or sells products that are linked to the disease.