Apart from being an unprecedented global health pandemic, coronavirus has exposed long-existing painful truths about systemic and intrapersonal intolerance, prejudice and discrimination around the globe. In response, Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) and theCollectiveShift launched the “Distance Yourself From Hate” PSA campaign, which rallies more than 40 voices from the arts, fashion and entertainment.

CFDA member Jason Wu, serving on GMHC’s board for the past five years, designed the $30 face mask that carries the message in a logo designed by Fabien Baron, available now for purchase here.

“We were duly reminded of the importance and need for change when Larry Kramer, the founder of GMHC, passed away late May,” said Wu. “Kramer fought for decades, especially in the 80s when HIV/AIDS was unrecognized and not spoken about by people. We never lost touch with him, and the integrity of his beliefs serve to us as a reminder to live that legacy every day.”

The campaign theme was initially developed late March in response to discrimination against Asian people, but as the world fights for justice and Black liberation after the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and countless other Black people lost to police violence, the campaign has taken on a much larger meaning.

It’s the first time in 40 years that the Gay Men’s Health Crisis is offering its services to more than the group’s HIV-positive clients. GHMC is working with Harlem United, an HIV and AIDS services organization, and Lantern Community Services, a group that fights homelessness, which will receive masks to distribute and food assistance.

“Being vocal, diverse, inclusive and educating people is ingrained in GMHC’s DNA,” said Wu. “We fought through the AIDS epidemic, and we have the resources and know-how to reach out to more people in need. Our world has changed dramatically since we started.”

June marks the month-long celebration of Pride, but Wu’s intentions are taking a different approach this year with a focus on Black Lives Matter and bringing the true spirit of Pride back to the forefront.

“Pride isn’t about rainbows everywhere, it’s about honoring the people like Marsha P. Johnson, a Black transwoman, and Sylvia Rivera, a Latinx transwoman, who fought for our rights today and laid the groundwork for the work we’re doing now,” the designer said. “It’s not about waving the flag, it’s about walking the walk.”

The CFDA member’s tenure on the GMHC board is all about community, and his commitment to the development committee is very serious.

Wu is sending an open call to the fashion industry to get involved. The transitions and difficulties over the past three months have brought to light deep problems within our industry, and the designer recognizes the need to reevaluate and change.

“Fashion and designers have a voice. We should use that voice not only to tell the stories of our brands, but to tell consumers what our values are,” Wu said with a hopeful tone to his voice. “This is the beginning of a new era at GMHC, and it’s far from over. It’s just beginning.”

Photo courtesy of Jason Wu