VIDEO: American Eagle is a landmark with the "Spirit" of acceptance

American Eagle Outfitters is putting their support for LGBT youth on display in Times Square and San Francisco for Spirit Day.

The clothing store, with locations both across the country and around the world, is one of the most popular brands among teens and young adults. Their merchandise resonates with people throughout a broad spectrum of styles, from preppy to boho chic and beyond. This year, American Eagle is sending a special message to its LGBT customers and their allies by signing on as a Spirit Day partner to stand up against bullying.

If you're strolling through Times Square in New York, there's a good chance you'll see what I mean. Starting October 1st and running through Spirit Day on October 17th, their billboard will spread the word about the anti-bullying campaign four times per hour. AEO is showing off their spirit on the West Coast, too. San Francisco's legendary Market Street—filled with history, street cars, shopping galore and more—will have Spirit Day-themed window displays at American Eagle's store front.

 

American Eagle is one of many companies who are going purple in support of the LGBT community. American Apparel, AT&T, CBS, Comcast, Delta Air Lines, Disney, Facebook, Johnson & Johnson, MTV, NBCUniversal, Telemundo, Thomson-Reuters, Tumblr, Toyota, United Airlines, Verizon, and Wells Fargo are just a few of this year's Spirit Day corporate partners. Landmarks including Caesars Palace Las Vegas, JFK Airport, LAX, NASDAQ, and, yes, even the White House, will show their spirit for Spirit Day with flare like purple lights, social media awareness, and marquees. Celebrities, organizations, faith-based groups, and schools are getting in on the action as well.

Founded in 2010, Spirit Day, which will be on October 17 this year, is an international, united stand against bullying and show of support for LGBT teens and young adults everywhere. Participants can get into the spirit by

  • Taking the Spirit Day Pledge
  • Wearing purple on the 17th
  • Spreading the word through social media, using #SpiritDay, and turning their profile pictures and websites purple
  • Downloading the Spirit Day App
  • Educating your friends and family about bullying and the LGBT community
  • Getting your school, GSA, organization, etc. to become a Spirit Day partner

There's still time to become a Spirit Day participant and partner, and to join the Facebook event! Sign up today and spread the word.

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