North Carolina is the first state approved for renewal of the 2016 Vitiligo Awareness Proclamation.
We would like to say a special thank you to Governor Pat McCrory and staff for continued support in helping us raise awareness of Vitiligo.
Vitiligo is an autoimmune, non-contagious skin disorder that is generally misunderstood by the public. There is currently no funding for bringing awareness and very little funding for research for Vitiligo. People who live with Vitiligo are often discriminated against because of the white patches on their skin. Adolescents are bullied at school. There are devastating quality of life issues and we and our partners want to change it.
We hope this year, before President Barack Obama leaves office, that he will reconsider and grant us a National Proclamation to help us bring more awareness to Vitiligo.
Natasha Pierre McCarthy is the visionary founder of the National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation (Vitiligo Bond), a nonprofit devoted to supporting and empowering individuals living with vitiligo.
Drawing inspiration from her experiences as a Christian business professor and the guidance of her pastor, Natasha turned a God-inspired vision into reality—creating a platform that educates, uplifts, and connects those affected by vitiligo.
Vitiligo Bond promotes awareness through innovative educational initiatives, including Vitiligo 101 sessions at Emory University with Dr. Holla, community events, social media campaigns, partnerships with support groups, and collaborations with public figures and state leaders. By fostering a strong, supportive community, Vitiligo Bond ensures that no one with vitiligo feels alone.
Through tireless advocacy, Vitiligo Bond and its dedicated volunteers have been instrumental in securing Governor Proclamations in multiple states, officially recognizing Vitiligo Awareness in Georgia, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and West Virginia... The organization has also supported the launch of vitiligo focused support groups and nonprofits both nationally and internationally. Well-known brands have collaborated with Vitiligo Bond, featuring models from the organization to destigmatize vitiligo and promote inclusivity.
Natasha’s work has earned recognition from Congressman Hank Johnson, whose support helped bring national attention to vitiligo awareness, including acknowledgment by President Barack Obama administration during Vitiligo Awareness Month in June. Current efforts also include legislative initiatives (HRES 792) to address bullying and advocate for youth affected by vitiligo.
Believing that everyone is created with a purpose and deserves a full, vibrant life, Natasha reminds us, “We all have the ability to shine.” Vitiligo Bond remains steadfast in its mission to raise awareness, promote self-acceptance, support those facing bullying, destigmatize vitiligo, and advance research toward understanding and ultimately curing vitiligo.
