October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

         If you’ve seen pink popping up on billboards, ads and store windows you’ll know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A startling one in eight women will be diagnosed with the disease at some point in their life, so it’s no surprise the ubiquitous pink ribbon campaign enjoys such widespread support.
The idea of tying ribbons to causes has roots in American folklore, but the modern association of “the medium as the message” began in the 1970s. Penne Laingen, the wife of a hostage in Iran, tied yellow ribbons around trees to illustrate her desire to have her husband returned. Ribbons hit the big time in 1991 when actor Jeremy Irons was photographed wearing a red AIDS awareness ribbon at the Tony Awards. The photo unleashed a swell of popular support for the cause. Pink breast cancer ribbons became widespread the following year when used by Estee Lauder Cosmetics and Self Magazine to promote Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The popularity of the AIDS and breast cancer ribbons energized other groups; today it’s possible to show your support for almost any cause. Here’s a list of many of the awareness ribbon colors and their meanings.
         While we focus on Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, it’s important to remember the sense of community and camaraderie we show with ribbons and charms need not end on the 31^st. Because the struggles of survivors will continue, so will our support. See our project gallery for inspiring awareness earrings, bracelets and necklaces.