+ HOW DOES DRESSEMBER RAISE MONEY, AND WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
Every year thousands of people from all over the world take on the challenge of wearing a dress or tie every day of December to fight all forms of human trafficking. All month, those who participate spread the word about what they're doing and why, compelling others to contribute to the cause by making a monetary contribution. We partner with International Justice Mission (IJM) to resource programs that prioritize addressing human trafficking systemically.
With over 25 years of experience and global reach, IJM is an organization that partners with local governments, non-profit organizations, and corporations to combat human trafficking and violence against women and children around the world.
IJM has a proven track record of significantly reducing rates of human trafficking in regions where they have worked, and we rely on IJM’s deep expertise to identify and invest in the most effective programs that will achieve measurable impact.
+ MY JOB REQUIRES THAT I WEAR PANTS.
You can wear pants when you need to—as with a job that requires pants, or when you're working out, cleaning, or sleeping. Wear a dress when you get to choose what to wear.
+ I’D LOVE TO PARTICIPATE, BUT IT’S REALLY COLD IN DECEMBER WHERE I LIVE.
Believe it or not, many people in colder regions like Montreal, NYC, Chicago, Scotland, and even Alaska have participated in Dressember — and loved it. There are some helpful loopholes — like wearing pants under dresses, fleece-lined tights, lots of layers — and most importantly, enthusiasm for the cause, that can help you survive the bitter cold. We also suspect that those of you in colder areas can have the biggest impact in raising awareness and support, since it is such a jarring challenge to undertake! Consider this powerful statement from a participant in Ontario: "A dress everyday for 31 days during a Canadian winter is a minor discomfort compared to that of so many affected by human trafficking. I hope, if nothing else, to raise awareness of this dark reality that is still very present in our world, our country, our city."
+ I HATE DRESSES. IS THERE ANOTHER WAY I CAN HELP?
Yes. You can wear a tie instead! Or, help spread the word in your community and encourage others to join in. You can also make a donation to the campaign or to a specific participant. If you're on the fence about joining, though, might we tempt you by pointing out that some of the most amazing stories and testimonials come from those who decided to participate in spite of hating dresses? We love the notion of doing one thing that scares you every day; maybe Dressember could challenge you in a new and beautiful way.
+ DO SKIRTS COUNT?
You can wear skirts, but only over dresses. Unfortunately, it's not called Skirtember, folks.
