Breast Cancer’s Pink Ribbon: More Than Just a Pretty Color
Brooke Greene
For the past few decades, the pink ribbon has been globally recognized as the symbol for breast cancer. In 1991, the Susan G. Komen race initiated the distribution and influence of these ribbons—an influence that is perceived to be hopeful, soothing, comforting, and healing. The symbol of the pink ribbon has become more of something to celebrate, as if a great victory or triumph has been achieved. However, it has simultaneously masked the truths and not-so-pretty realities of breast cancer and its research.
The original founder of the pink ribbon, Charlotte Haley, had no connection with the Susan G. Komen organization. It wasn’t until her protest started to pick up momentum that companies like Estee Lauder and Self magazine approached her. Furthermore, the designs of her ribbons starkly contrasted from the rather glamorous ones we see today that are made of diamonds and charms. She made them with strips of cloth, tied them to cards, on which she wrote, “The National Cancer Institute annual budget is $1.8 billion, and only 5 percent goes to cancer prevention. Help us wake up our legislators and America by wearing this ribbon” (baction.org). Clearly, the significance of the pink ribbon has changed drastically from what was meant to be the original intention.
Today, many people that buy sponsored products do not realize where their money is actually going. Not only that, but companies also take advantage of the fact that consumers don’t stop to think about what percentage of their purchase is donated to cancer research. A prime example is when, in 2002, a credit card company launched a new project entitled ‘Charge for a Cure’, and claimed, “When in search for a cure, every dollar counts.” Meanwhile, regardless of the amount of a purchase, the company donated only one penny per transaction. One penny. Moral of the story: you’re better off writing a check.
There are loads of ways to be proactive and do things that can help advance not only the research for a cure, but also the way we treat people who are living with cancer and have lived with cancer. The first and most important action is becoming aware. Be aware that—surprise! —breast cancer is usually not soothing or comforting. Be aware that although there are many survivors, there are still women who are living in the last stage of breast cancer: those who are learning how to live and die with cancer. Be aware and in control of where your donations are sent. If you don’t have a Ph.D. or work in a research lab, there are tons of small groups that do sentimental things to help, like sewing blankets or the Heart Pillow Project, which ISF will soon be participating in. Always stay informed, reach out, and Happy Breast Cancer Awareness Month!