KISS OFF! |
'uniting in a creative response to intolerance'
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GLOBAL INITIATIVE (JUNE 28 - JULY 4, 2014)
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KISS OFF! is a global initiative run by DMo and sponsored by Raindance, taking place during the week of June 28 to July 4, 2014. During this week people around the world are encouraged to share a photo or vine video of a same sex kiss in the name of love, equality and human rights. It is a creative way to challenge societal homophobia and bring awareness to the persecutions people face because of their sexual orientation and identity. It is also a visual celebration of love and life that uses art to educate and unite.
Getting creative and kissing for a cause In the few months preceding the KISS OFF! we have seen newly elected Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott openly opposing same sex marriage; Russia’s President Vladamir Putin issuing anti-gay propaganda laws that strip people of their human rights and encourage homophobic violence; Supreme Court judges in India criminalizing gay sex; and Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan signing the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act that delivers hefty jail terms for gay marriage and membership or encouragement of gay clubs, societies and organizations. |
During such a time when world leaders are taking backward steps regarding equality and human rights for all, the KISS OFF! seeks to bring people together to share kisses and supportive captions through twitter by tagging tweets with #kissingoff, in order to be part of a voice to change fearful ignorance and discomfort with openness and acceptance. Love is love. Human rights are human rights.
Why a kiss?
Anonymity does not bring equality. For this reason, a simple yet powerful image was needed, one that could easily engage discussion and challenge debilitating close-mindedness. So what better than a kiss, a universal symbol of love and close connection. Whether a kiss is shared in kinship, friendship or partnership; whether one considers their self hetero, gay, bi or chooses to be label-free; by tweeting a kiss off anyone can help turn marginalization into mainstream tolerance.
Significance of dates
June 28 marks pride parade weekend in London and New York, a time celebrating solidarity in diversity and affirmation of equality rights. July 4 is independence day, a date that reminds us all of certain civil rights that should be awarded to everyone, among which are the rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Support
It's important to get as many people as possible #kissingoff. Above all, it's a fun and positive way to raise awareness, stimulate dialogue, challenge societal homophobia and amplify the voices of a global community that stands for equality and human rights, and has the desire to live in a harmonious world!
Huge THANKS to everyone involved!
Why a kiss?
Anonymity does not bring equality. For this reason, a simple yet powerful image was needed, one that could easily engage discussion and challenge debilitating close-mindedness. So what better than a kiss, a universal symbol of love and close connection. Whether a kiss is shared in kinship, friendship or partnership; whether one considers their self hetero, gay, bi or chooses to be label-free; by tweeting a kiss off anyone can help turn marginalization into mainstream tolerance.
Significance of dates
June 28 marks pride parade weekend in London and New York, a time celebrating solidarity in diversity and affirmation of equality rights. July 4 is independence day, a date that reminds us all of certain civil rights that should be awarded to everyone, among which are the rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Support
It's important to get as many people as possible #kissingoff. Above all, it's a fun and positive way to raise awareness, stimulate dialogue, challenge societal homophobia and amplify the voices of a global community that stands for equality and human rights, and has the desire to live in a harmonious world!
Huge THANKS to everyone involved!
SUPPORTERS
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