The Run-Through with Vogue: Episode Summary

Episode Title: How The Viral ‘Protect the Dolls’ and ‘Promote Homosexuality’ T-shirts Were Made
Release Date: June 26, 2025
Host: Chloe Mao and Choma Nadi
Guests: Jose Crialas Unzueta, Connor Ives, Willie Norris, Emma Spector

1. Introduction to Iconic T-shirts

The episode delves into the creation and impact of two influential T-shirts: Connor Ives' "Protect the Dolls" and Willie Norris' "Promote Homosexuality." Hosts Chloe Mao and Choma Nadi set the stage by highlighting the cultural significance and viral nature of these designs.

Choma Nadi (01:36):
“Our most esteemed colleague, Jose Crialas Unzueta spoke to two designers that we love, Connor Ives and Willie Norris, about two very iconic T-shirts that they have made.”

2. "Protect the Dolls" by Connor Ives

Connor Ives discusses the inception of the "Protect the Dolls" T-shirt, its unexpected viral success, and the substantial funds raised for Trans Lifeline.

Chloe Mao (03:57):
“Connor actually won the BFC Vogue Designer Fund this year and he was talking about how that T-shirt has raised almost $1 million.”

Connor Ives (28:59):
“It just aligned with a moment in the air or the right person saw it. Which I think speaks to the power of that community.”

The shirt's widespread adoption by celebrities like Pedro Pascal and Troye Sivan is highlighted, emphasizing its role in supporting transgender crisis support during a politically tense period.

Jose Crialas Unzueta (04:07):
“Connor's T-shirt Protect the Dolls has been everywhere... it's been a big staple in our household.”

3. "Promote Homosexuality" by Willie Norris

Willie Norris reflects on the creation of his "Promote Homosexuality" T-shirt, its reception within the LGBTQ+ community, and its cultural impact.

Willie Norris (17:31):
“Protect the Dolls has sort of become this phenomenon... promote homosexuality became a cultural sensation.”

The discussion touches on how the shirt resonated deeply within the community, fostering a sense of unity and pride without relying on corporate symbolism.

Chloe Mao (26:52):
“There's such power to saying protect the bricks, protect the dolls who don't, you know, who aren't the supermodel.”

4. Impact on Pride Fashion and Corporate Activism

The conversation transitions to the broader implications of these T-shirts on Pride fashion and the critique of corporate involvement.

Connor Ives (20:54):
“Is it beneficial to be thinking of corporations as almost like our friends... or can we seek that acknowledgment in our communities?”
Emma Spector (24:27):
“Corporate pride collaborations... give people money, but it’s not always perceived correctly.”

The hosts and guests discuss the phenomenon of "rainbow washing" and the diminishing authenticity of corporate-led Pride initiatives.

5. Community-Driven Initiatives vs. Corporate Efforts

Emphasizing grassroots movements, the guests advocate for more meaningful, community-driven actions over superficial corporate gestures.

Willie Norris (34:48):
“We're around the same age, the three of us. We grew up in the age of representation matters... now we're having all these conversations.”

Emma Spector (36:06):
“You need to distribute it... ensure that you are contributing to what you're saying on your chest.”

6. Expanding Beyond T-shirts: Future Directions

The episode explores how these initiatives can evolve, encouraging sustained community engagement and support beyond merchandise.

Connor Ives (37:32):
“We're not a for-profit product. We're ensuring all proceeds go to Trans Lifeline.”

Willie Norris (38:42):
“It's impact through real partnerships, not just slogans.”

7. Conclusion and Reflections

Wrapping up, the hosts and guests reflect on the power of fashion as a medium for activism and the responsibility that comes with visibility.

Willie Norris (42:18):
“You can wear a T-shirt that says something... make sure you're contributing to what you're saying.”

Connor Ives (43:43):
“Thank you both for being on the Run through. Happy Pride.”

The episode underscores the significance of authentic representation and the potential of fashion to drive meaningful social change.

Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity Over Corporate Symbolism: Genuine community initiatives, like the "Protect the Dolls" and "Promote Homosexuality" T-shirts, have a deeper impact compared to corporate-led Pride efforts.
• Power of Community: Grassroots movements foster a stronger sense of unity and purpose within the LGBTQ+ community.
• Sustained Support: Beyond merchandise, ongoing support through organizations like Trans Lifeline is crucial for lasting change.
• Fashion as Activism: Clothing can serve as a powerful tool for advocacy, visibility, and fundraising within marginalized communities.

Notable Quotes:

• Choma Nadi (03:57):
  “Connor actually won the BFC Vogue Designer Fund this year and he was talking about how that T-shirt has raised almost $1 million.”

• Willie Norris (20:54):
  “What's really interesting is that a lot of my friends who are part of the LGBTQ community within fashion are not necessarily engaging with pride directly, but because they engage with it as a concept, as an experience all year long.”

• Emma Spector (36:06):
  “You need to distribute it... ensure that you are contributing to what you're saying on your chest.”

This episode offers an insightful exploration of how fashion intersects with activism, highlighting the profound effects that well-crafted messages can have within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community.