Why Unite the States?
Unite the States is a socially-conscious campaign with a big-hearted mission: To unite us in our humanity regardless of our differences in race, gender, politics, religious beliefs, or socioeconomic status.
A lofty goal, right? It’s more of a prayer. We don’t believe for a minute that we could ever bridge the enormous chasms that divide this country into its many tribes. But if we could take one small step to encourage open-mindedness between ‘us’ and whoever we consider ‘them,’ then we’re on a positive path to forging unity.
We are not trying to end partisanship. Polarity exists – some might argue that it’s our differences that give the USA its color – but it’s now toxic. Any exchange concerning different beliefs can get ugly quick. The rule about not discussing politics or religion at the table has been born out too many times to ignore. But where does that leave us? Must we avoid discussion or debate entirely? How will we learn about each other if we don’t talk about our differences?
In 2001, I witnessed in realtime, the terrorist attacks on 9/11. I’d just got out of the pool at Chelsea Piers and was drawn to a crowd watching the devastation caused by the first plane. As I stood there, the second Cessna hit, leaving a memory that will be with me forever. But it was the next couple of weeks in NYC that changed my perspective on what it means to be an American. The sense of shared humanity was palpable. Ordinarily cool and aloof, New Yorkers became warm and kind-hearted towards each other. Sadly the feeling slowly dispersed. Starting Unite The States is my way of doing what I can to recreate it.
When you purchase Unite The States merch, you are buying into the brand’s mission to forge peace through positive dialogue. Wear the merch, and you become an ambassador for kindness.
And kind people are our kind of people.
Join our campaign to fight for unity and equality by signing up for updates, supporting our work, checking out our resources, following us on social media, or sporting our merch.
Founding Visionaries
Nin Glaister
I am as guilty as the next for trying to deflect arguments for the sake of peace at meal times, but it has also left me feeling mute. How do I know what I believe if people who think differently from me don’t test my beliefs?
The study and practice of Graphic Design taught me the power of compelling visual and verbal communication, but I’ve always felt like I’m on shaky ground if ever I was asked to voice what I believe. Thus Unite The States is a visual movement. The brand’s primary color Purple represents peace and understanding. The logo combines the calm stability of blue, and the fierce energy of red, that symbolize the ‘us’ and ‘them.’ The slogans we use are meant to inspire each one of us to be our better selves.
Nina Ross
Born and raised in Maine, Nina grew up the youngest of three siblings, leaving her with an abundance of communication skills and a capacity for story-telling. Though writing is just one of her many passions, she hopes her search for personal insights will help her uncover the mysteries of her own life and the lives of curious minds like hers. Nina lives to unite the states in every way possible.
Hi Nin. Please create copy and art for me. I’m looking a little too basic. Thanks!