In an effort to stimulate discussion and encourage a more vocal public condemnation of relationship violence, Liz Claiborne, Inc. has designed a sterling silver bead-shot necklace with a heart shaped charm. The approximately quarter-inch, double-sided heart is engraved with the mutually reinforcing messages, "LOVE IS NOT ABUSE" on one side and "ABUSE IS NOT LOVE" on the other.
Liz Claiborne specialty stores nationwide have partnered with local domestic violence service agencies in their communities, who will receive profits from sales of the "limited edition" item. The necklace ($20), along with a new 1996 Women's Work commemorative T-shirt ($12), are ideal "gifts that give back" for the approaching holidays.
They are available during the month of October at any of the 118 Liz Claiborne, Elisabeth or Claiborne Stores nationwide, or by calling 1-800-449-7867. Profits from the 800 number product sales will benefit the Famly Violence Prevention Fund, Liz Claiborne Inc.'s national charity partner.
In conjunction with the campaign, Liz Claiborne Inc. will hold its third annual Charity Shopping Day on Thursday, October 17th when all the Liz Claiborne, Elisabeth, and Claiborne Stores nationwide will donate 10 percent of the total day's sales to domestic violence agencies in their area.
Liz Claiborne Inc., the first major corporation to tackle the issue of relationship violence over five years ago through a program called "Women's Work," has also developed a new 30-second PSA using high profile college football student athletes. Speaking directly to men about breaking the code of silence surrounding relationship violence, the PSA takes an innovative approach to addressing the issue. It goes beyond simply raising awareness of abuse by proactively discouraging men from participating in relationship violence or tolerating it in others.
Tha PSA was created by Liz Claiborne's advertising agency, New York-based Gotham, Inc. The PSA was developed in partnership with Northeastern University's Center for the Study of Sport in Society and will be distributed in conjunction with the College Football Association.