Raise your voice and demand an end to a narrow beauty mystique. No matter where you have been on the journey to selfhood, start each day with the intention of championing yourself and others. It is never too late to claim yourself. The revolution—for all of us, of any upbringing—is about to crescendo. — From Hijas Americanas: Beauty, Body Image, and Growing Up Latina, page 278.
Next week, we are unveiling t-shirts that take ownership of beauty and its meaning. These t-shirts celebrate the very essence of Hijas Americanas. They celebrate the essence of so many women—those whose lives are found in the pages of Hijas Americanas and those whose lives are somehow touched by the book (the front is above, the back says defined in small font between the shoulder blades and has the web address so people can learn about Hijas). The sweatshop-free, organic t-shirts will sell for $20 dollars. All t-shirt proceeds will go to support the programming of Girls on the Run International, a non-profit prevention program that encourages preteen girls to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles through running. The curricula addresses all aspects of girls’ development – their physical, emotional, mental, social and spiritual well-being. There are 150 Girls on the Run Councils across the United States and Canada. Want to pre-order a t-shirt from the first limited edition print run? Please e-mail elanebeam@gmail.com noting how many t-shirts you would like to order and in what sizes by 4 pm on September 12, 2007. The first print run order will then be placed on the 13th. Also, mail a check made out to Rosie Molinary to Hijas Americanas c/o Erin Beam to PO Box 2340 Davidson, NC 28036. As soon as we have the t-shirts in, we will send out your paid for order.
Thanks so much for joining the beauty revolution! Love your body, Rosie
I once ran in a 5K that was affiliated with Girls on the Run. It was in LA County. What struck me though was that many of the younger girls could not run even a mile or two of the three mile race. I do think that it is a great organization though, and hopefully more young girls will get out there and just move. Of course, if they can run and increase their cardiovascular health and endurance even better! Running is one of the few activities that you can do anywhere. You can just lace up and go. No crazy equipment fees or accessories.