It feels like I can't go anywhere without running into a store begging me to buy something to support breast cancer victims.
There's no denying that breast cancer awarness is a good cause. I like the "Fight like a Girl" t-shirts, and I respect people who start their own homegrown charities such as the Thomas James hair salon in Michigan which is donating the money they make from selling pink hair extensions.
What bothers me is the sheer volume of merchandise on the market right now. You can get breast cancer themed rubber duckies, pins, scarves, hats, Barbies, and even breast cancer nail care kits.
There's even a new Vera Wang collection of breast cancer clothing, because what better way to support breast cancer survivors than wearing a pink, plaid two-piece outfit. Is it a swim suit? Boy shorts? I really have no idea.
Then there's the NFL. I'm sure everyone's seen the pink coins, footballs, and outfits the players have been sporting at games as well as pink-tinted jerseys, caps, and shirts they've been selling online. No matter how much they end up donating, it's inevitable that the NFL will be making a lot of money at the same time.
Also, since when has the NFL been a great bastion of womanhood anyway? Coming from a corporation that recently had to send out a memo to remind its players to respect female reporters, it's hard for me not to suspect ulterior motives.
There's no denying that breast cancer is a horrible disease and everyone should be aware of the signs and procedures used to treat it, but seeing the market flooded with pink merchandise like this makes my skin crawl.
No cause should be merely stylish or trendy. There has to be a better way to get this message across without turning it into a massive marketing opportunity.
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