Adorned in robes and towels, protesters declare “Rather Be Naked Than Wear SHEIN” in a global call for fashion industry reform
In a striking display of activism and solidarity, Los Angeles students are taking to the streets in front of Shein’s downtown headquarters to mark Earth Day with a powerful protest against the fast fashion behemoth.
Led by Lexy Silverstein, a sustainable fashion champion, with support from the sustainability nonprofit Remake, they’re shining a light on the major environmental and ethical issues tied to fast fashion. The goal is to rally people worldwide to demand better. Remake is a global advocacy organisation fighting for fair pay and climate justice in the clothing industry.
Protestors, who will be wearing robes and towels with “Rather Be Naked Than Wear Shein,” are making it clear: they’re done with harmful practices and want consumers and companies in particular to take action.
“This protest is more than just standing around; it’s about waking people up,” says Lexy Silverstein. “We’re pushing Shein and all fast fashion brands to see the damage they’re doing and to start making real changes towards being sustainable and fair, especially to their workers.”
“This protest isn’t just a demonstration; it’s a wake-up call,” says Silverstein. “We’re urging Shein and the entire fast fashion industry to recognise their impact on the environment and to quickly move towards sustainable, ethical practices while also tackling unfair labour practices for garment workers.”
The LA protest is part of a bigger worldwide effort. In the UK, students led by protest organizer Jemima Elliott are calling out Boohoo, another big name in fast fashion. These events are in sync, showing a united front against the harmful fast fashion model and highlighting the desperate need for change across the board.
The Earth Day protest isn’t just about calling out Shein & Boohoo; it’s about educating the buying public on the impact of their fashion choices. “Boohoo PLC has consistently violated human and workers’ rights in their supply chain,” says Jemima Elliott.
“They have created horrific conditions for workers and are pumping out obscene numbers of garments that are choking our planet. Yet the public is still buying from them, and the government turns a blind eye. We need action now.”
This Earth Day, the message is clear: it’s time for the fashion industry to step up and make sustainable and ethical changes. Through bold actions, students are not just challenging Shein, Boohoo, and other fast fashion brands; they’re inspiring people everywhere to think more about their fashion purchases.
To RSVP to attend the protest, click here.
