Washington, D.C. — The online retailer Chrissy’s Socks became a member of the International Fur Free Retailer program this week. The announcement was made by Born Free USA, a global leader in animal welfare and wildlife conservation, and Chrissy’s Socks owner, Chrissy Conte.[teaserbreak]
According to Adam M. Roberts, CEO of Born Free USA and the Born Free Foundation, “Retailers continue to step up worldwide to take a stand against the use of fur in fashion, thanks to companies like Chrissy’s Socks. We are proud that the program is attracting companies like this and hope this wave continues.”
Conte said, “Our mission is to set an example by taking a firm stand against animal cruelty and promoting alternatives to animal products such as fur. As we become an increasingly popular brand, we are aware of our responsibility towards a global sustainability initiative and our role in eradicating the mistreatment of animals in the fashion industry. Chrissy’s boasts hundreds of uniquely stylish socks for purchase online. Everyone should be able to enjoy the slinky, yet sweet feel of a quality knee sock!”
Founded by Born Free USA in 2006, the Fur Free Retailer program is an international effort to give consumers accurate information about a retailer’s fur policy, allowing consumers to make an informed choice when shopping. The program aims to further the spirit of ethical consumerism and provide shoppers with information about the most compassionate retailers in the world. The program recognizes and supports retailers that have committed, in writing, to a no-fur policy.
In 2012, a record 50 retailers signed on from more than 20 countries. Since then, the program has continued to expand and now also features a wide variety of retailers worldwide, including maternity wear, sportswear, eco-friendly, faux fur focused, ballroom, consignment, and more. For a list of retailers in the program, visit www.furfreeretailer.com/shop.php.
Roberts adds, “Another year cannot go by when animals are brutally killed for their fur. We need consumers to get involved and show their respect for wildlife, and encourage and support those retailers willing to go fur free. Taking an ethical and public stand against fur fashion offers a company a chance to promote a public policy against violence and cruelty, and to lend its support to the international efforts to end this unnecessary and cruel fashion choice.”
The program is also supported by the Fur Free Alliance (FFA), an international coalition of leading animal and environmental protection organizations worldwide. These organizations facilitate the Fur Free Retailer program in their countries.
See the full list at www.furfreeretailer.com.
Born Free USA is a global leader in animal welfare and wildlife conservation. Through litigation, legislation, and public education, Born Free USA leads vital campaigns against animals in entertainment, exotic “pets,” trapping and fur, and the destructive international wildlife trade. Born Free USA brings to America the message of “compassionate conservation”—the vision of the U.K.-based Born Free Foundation, established in 1984 by Bill Travers and Virginia McKenna, stars of the iconic film Born Free, along with their son Will Travers. Born Free’s mission is to end suffering of wild animals in captivity, conserve threatened and endangered species, and encourage compassionate conservation globally. More at www.bornfreeusa.org, www.twitter.com/bornfreeusa, and www.facebook.com/bornfreeusa.
Media Contact: Rodi Rosensweig, 203/270-8929, therodicompany@gmail.com