The Foundation of Hope, a Vancouver-based, non-profit organization dedicated to helping LGBTQIA2S+ refugees fleeing persecution has attracted global attention for their stiletto walk-a-thon, STRUT.
Equinox, a Global chain of upscale fitness clubs, is bringing its Stonewall Stilettos from its Commitment Collection to Vancouver to be displayed at the STRUT walk June 9 at Sunset Beach.
Equinox commissioned designer Shayne Oliver to create the stilettos, a pair of heels constructed with fabric salvaged from pleather banquettes that once sat in the legendary New York City-based Stonewall Inn, the site of the 1969 uprising and riots that launched the gay rights movement. Inspired by STRUT’s fierce defense of equality, Equinox will display the stilettos at Sunset Beach during the STRUT walk as a symbol of strength and activism.
The STRUT walks encourages everyone to take part in the one-mile walk in heels as a way to enforce its message, “a mile in heels is easier than a lifetime in the closet,” in reference to the fact homosexuality is still illegal in almost 80 countries. Money raised at the walk helps support non-profit groups such as Rainbow Refugee and Rainbow Railroad, which help LGBTQIA2S+ refugees fleeing detainment or even death in their home countries.
Equinox’s Commit to Something Campaign is made up of seven one-of-a-kind items inspired by individuals and organizations on earth, which have dedicated themselves to creating change.
Other items in the Commitment Collection include:
The Truth Lipstick: Made from blank newspaper pages from the Washington Post symbolizing the organization’s commitment to free press and journalistic integrity — designed by Mel Ottenberg.
The Law Suit: Made from case files of lawyer James Thornton, founder of non-profit ClientEarth, who for more than four decades committed to fighting for the environment — designed by Eckhaus Latta.
The Shades of Humanity: Made from the camera lens of 2016 Instagram photographer of the year, Ruddy Roye and symbolize Roye’s commitment to capturing stories that often go unseen — designed by Adam Selman.
Eau De Blood, Sweat & Tears: This fragrance was infused with the actual DNA of Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon and symbolizes Switzer’s commitment to equal rights for all female athletes — bottle designed by Rafael de Cardenas/Architecture at Large with a custom scent by 12.29.
The Scrubs Sweatsuit: Inspired by the workwear of dedicated oncologists who, patient by patient, are committed to fighting the war on cancer daily — designed by Off-White’s Virgil Abloh.
The Real Camo Jacket: Made using actual material from the uniforms of four Heroes Project veterans, celebrating their partnership with Equinox and symbolizes project’s commitment to wounded veterans, who changes lives by empowering and enabling them to climb the world’s seven summits. Materials donated by Charlie Linville, including the jacket from his battle dress uniform and a piece of the boot he was wearing when he stepped on an IED and lost his leg;); Brad Ivanchan (belt when in combat); Carlos Torres (Jacket from his BDU’s, including his name patch); Kionte Storey (Bracelet from when he was in combat)
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