Advocate Spotlight: Symmone Anderson Reminds Us That "Consistency is Key."
Advocate Symmone Anderson has raised over 16 thousand dollars since 2014 for Dressember, which is an incredible feat. We asked her some questions about herself and her time spent advocating for the end of human trafficking, and her insight is helpful to advocates and donors alike.
Tell us a little bit about yourself (where you live, your day job, your interests — anything).
Symmone: I’m originally from Washington state but I currently live in Geneva, Switzerland, where I study Translation and Multilingual Communication at the University of Geneva. Both climates make for chilly Dressembers. I intern for the University but have also been fortunate to keep my tiny career in the fitness industry of six years; I enjoy encouraging people to take care of themselves through fitness and movement. Yoga pants are my work attire. My dog, Bowie, is always by my side and usually makes his way into my Dressember photos. When I’m not working or studying, you’ll find us outside.
How did you first hear about Dressember and why did you become interested in advocating?
S: I first became aware of Dressember in 2013 when I watched my friend, Shannon Miranda, participate in her first campaign. Before that, I hadn’t heard about human trafficking. I followed Shannon’s campaign and read everything she shared with us, and I was horrified. Human trafficking—a 150 billion dollar industry? The fastest-growing criminal industry? How could I not know this was happening?
I began researching further, diving into the topic and felt compelled to do something. When I saw the difference Shannon was making through her campaign, I felt empowered to try my hand at advocacy.
The following year I made my own campaign page. My goal was just $200. I barely made it, and I think maybe only five (amazing) people donated. But, I received a TON of questions—questions about what human trafficking is, where it’s happening, why people can’t just leave an exploitive situation, where donations go, how they can help, etc. I realized just how misunderstood human trafficking is and how much people want to help. I decided to make advocating a tradition.
What have you learned over the years as an advocate?
S: I think people want to act against injustice, but sometimes they don’t know where to begin. Taking small actions can feel insignificant towards global issues, but people DO want to make a difference. When we share information about an injustice, then follow this information up with ways people can make a difference, it shows people how to be open to taking action.
Why do you advocate for Dressember in particular?
S: I love the diverse variety of organizations the Dressember Foundation partners with. Every aspect of the anti-trafficking movement is supported: awareness training and campaigns; mentoring at-risk youth; rescue operations; court fees and prosecution of traffickers; and therapy, rehabilitation and job training for survivors. Every one of these facets is necessary to combating trafficking full circle.
I’m also drawn to the positive tone that Dressember and its community sets for this issue. Human trafficking is not easy to talk about, and it can be challenging to navigate the conversation. I think a fashion challenge is a creative and disarming way to introduce the topic to your friends, family or even strangers. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had my dress complimented by someone on the street or had someone mention how cold I must be. It’s an instant conversation starter! Making the topic just a bit more palatable means we can bring awareness to more people and ultimately have a greater impact.
You have raised an incredible amount of funds for Dressember — can you tell us some of your strategies in doing so?
S: The amount I’ve raised is a reflection of the generosity and character of my friends. They are my cheerleaders (and dress photographers), and they never fail to encourage me and share my campaign with others. I’ve truly noticed a chain reaction of advocacy over the years, and I’m so grateful for them.
I don’t pretend to be a fundraising expert, but I have learned a few things over the years. The best advice I can give is to be consistent. Don’t be discouraged if you didn’t make your goal this year. Try again next year. Your dedication will be inspiring to others. If you stick with it year after year, they will see how much you care about this issue. Consistency is key.
Second, if you have social media, use it to your advantage! Post your outfit daily, and include something you’ve learned about trafficking. Share posts by Dressember and each of the partner organizations, especially success stories. We all need to see good news in our feeds.
Lastly, try doing things that you wouldn’t conventionally do in a dress or tie. Don’t be afraid to look a little funny or out of place. I think I’ve fixed work equipment, exercised, and even snowboarded in a dress — anything that might seem odd to do while dressed up tends to get more attention, and that means more opportunity to use your voice. It also shows your dedication!
Connect with Symmone and feel free to reach out for advocate advice at @symmelaine on Instagram!
About the Author
Erin Diaz Cleveland is a writer and planner from Central Virginia. Her life goal is to use her passions to inspire and encourage others to serve and better themselves and their communities. She loves spending time with her family, instructing yoga and drinking iced espresso in the afternoon.