Empowerment - Vitiligo Resources

Vitiligo Awareness Campaign-Walk A Day In My Shoes

May 23, 2016 - By 

VITILIGOJUNEPOSTER

Before introducing the ‘Walk A Day In My Shoes’ campaign, let’s take a moment to discuss vitiligo.

Vitiligo is a condition characterized by the loss of skin pigmentation, resulting in white patches on the skin.

Many people may not be familiar with this condition. Often, vitiligo is linked to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, yet sadly, many did not believe he had it. Societal pressure and the desire to conform can lead individuals to depigment their skin to appear “normal” in the eyes of others.

For years, vitiligo has affected infants, adolescents, and adults across all races, classes, and genders. Those with vitiligo often face scorn and discrimination due to the visible patches, leading some to avoid public interactions or take night jobs. Some of our members have been denied employment because companies claimed their appearance did not align with the organization’s image. Others have been dismissed from their jobs after customers complained about being served by someone with vitiligo. Tragically, some individuals in India and other countries have taken their own lives, feeling rejected by their families and communities.

NO ONE SHOULD EVER CONSIDER SUICIDE DUE TO VITILIGO!

SHARE & GET INVOLVED TODAY! SOMEONE’S LIFE DEPENDS ON IT!

Vitiligo Bond and our partners urge you to step forward, express your feelings, and eliminate the shame. No more hiding! Let your light shine!

SO YOU WANT TO TAKE THE VITLIGO WALK A DAY IN OUR SHOES CHALLENGE

CHALLENGE

Vitiligo Bond Challenges Friends & Family of People Living With Vitiligo!

FIRST STEP: REPOST THIS ON YOUR PAGE! 

NEXT: WALK A MILE IN OUR SHOES!

Put some white patches on you face using a white makeup pencil and proceed with your normal day. 

TAKE A SELFIE AND POST ON YOUR PAGE AND SHARE YOUR SELFIE WITH US!

USE #JUNE IS VITILIGO AWARENESS

For each stare, comment, or unusual behavior you receive you can donate that amount to us here. 

If you cannot walk a mile in our shoes with white spots on your face, because you feel you will be embarrassed, well you have now experienced how it feels to have vitiligo.

Thanks for your support!

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.