We live in a world where it’s still taboo for men to paint their nails. (Ugh!) Australian non-profit YGAP is taking advantage of that by encouraging men to paint one nail in October to raise awareness that one in five children experience physical or sexual violence before turning 18. The Polished Man campaign hopes to spark a conversation, and many celebrities, including Zac Efron and brothers Chris and Liam Hemsworth, have already hopped on board.
Here’s the thinking behind the campaign: It’s unusual enough for men to wear nail polish (especially on just one finger) that people will ask them about it. But that concept has one big flaw: Plenty of men paint their nails because they want to—and that’s not an invitation to start asking them questions.
Still, the campaign deserves praise for spreading awareness about an all-too-common issue. Plus, participants are encouraged to donate, and so far Polished Man has raised over $250,000 to fund recovery programs for affected children.
