*This piece first appeared in the Front Office Sports Newsletter. Subscribe today and get the news before anyone else.
In celebration of Pride, UNINTERRUPTED has teamed up with Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird to design a Love is UNINTERRUPTED hoodie.
What’s the story?
The hoodie design, also a collaboration with streetwear designer Melody Ehsani, is inspired by Nigel Shelby, the 13 year old boy who tragically committed suicide in April due to homophobic bullying.
Inspiration for the design on the back was drawn from the LGBTQ pride flag, as well as in honor of Nigel (a photo of Nigel in a white hoodie with the rainbow flag became symbolic after his passing). The Lambda Symbol on the sleeve was first used by the Gay Activist Alliance in the 70’s, and later became a sign for gay liberation in general. The figure on the bottom of the sleeve consists of a stone texture, paying homage to the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots this year.
Will they be sold?
Only 200 hoodies will be made, with all of them being sent to athletes with a pledge card attached in an effort to be worn as a symbol of each athlete’s commitment to protecting and supporting LGBTQ youth, signing the pledge and taking action.
More than athletes…
“UNINTERRUPTED, Megan and I believe that every single person should have the freedom and the opportunity to love and be loved, openly. We made this hoodie to raise awareness and empower peers and allies alike to protect queer youth and speak up against homophobic violence and bullying.” – Sue Bird on the project
