The Justice4Grenfell Campaign Launches T-Shirt Collection to Assist Families of Grenfell Fire Victims
It's been two years since the Grenfell Tower fire in West London caused 72 deaths, over 70 injuries and displaced hundreds. The July 14, 2017 fire encompassed the 24-story tower and spread rapidly, burning two and a half days before it was finally extinguished. Not extinguished, though, is the passion behind the #Justice4Grenfell social justice campaign, born in the aftermath of the disaster.
This week, #Justice4Grenfell launched the 50/50 Collection aiming to raise £30,000 by selling t-shirts designed by a group of 50 UK-based artists. The shirts convey powerful messages in direct response to the fire as well as the inequities and politics that arose in the aftermath.
The organization was formed in the wake of the fire, as many believe authorities failed to properly and adequately handle the response and aid. It's mission is to, "hold all responsible authorities and individuals to account for their failure to provide safe homes, death of loved ones, and a lack of proper & effective response prior to, during and after the disaster," while attempting to prevent future tragedies by spreading information and fighting for social justice.
British jazz musician Moses Boyce's design is a play on the original D.A.R.E logo, instead reading, "C.A.R.E about social injustice." Jai Paul, a British songwriter, teamed up with HIRA of Paul Institute to design a black and white tee that proclaims, "Stop taking pictures please. Stop taking selfies. Not a tourist attractions," a seemingly direct response to the throngs of tourists that stop to snap photographs at the site.
Another direct statement is portrayed in the design by Steven Julien, which depicts a cordless phone straight out of the '90s and reads, "Calling 4 Justice. It's been two years and justice hasn't been served. To find out how you can still support call Justice 4 Grenfell on 0208 935 5428."
Graphic designer Halima Olalemi released a statement saying of the tragedy, “It made me realise we need to keep the victims' stories alive through protest and art."
The t-shirts are available via Everpress until September 30th and cost $30.50 with a varying percentage of profits going to #Justice4Grenfell.
The 50/50 Project offers artistic representation to a cause much bigger than t-shirts. Honoring and remembering the lives lost, providing much-needed assistance to those families who are still struggling, and continuing to push for awareness and accountability helps to keep the #Justice4Grenfell mission alive and within the consciousness of all who wear them.
Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue
