A reader writes:
Scott Gilmore
success is notable. Last year, in Canada, they raised more than $22 million. The global campaign has won broad support and accolades."
And then he denigrates it and tells us to write a check. So, they've successfully raised money while getting to enjoy themselves and a ridiculous mustache. The horror! I donated to a friend's Movember effort this year precisely because of the stupid thing he grew on his face in addition to supporting prostate cancer research. The Movember effort is to raise awareness, just like marches/walks for a whole host of other causes like the Mutt Strutt I donated to and participated in earlier this year.
People who grow a mustache and don't donate, Livestrong bracelet wearers that don't write a check? Yeah, slacktivists. People who grow mustaches, donate, and get others to donate? Doing something.
Another writes:
The whole point is that not many people can pull off a mustache.
My father has a glorious handle bar that he has been growing since he was drafted to fight in Vietnam, when he could barely grow a mustache. I can't possibly live up to that. Instead, I look like an idiot, much to the delight of my friends (and
consternation of my girlfriend). But I gamely take the abuse in exchange for whatever people can afford to donate. In this way, I have raised $470 for prostate cancer research thus far. The November mustache is most decidedly not about me. I look sketchy, feel self-conscious about it, and my employer is less than excited about it. I’m leading a big meeting tomorrow and I’m already getting agita. But, what the hell? I’m raising money for a good cause, so why not?
I am not quite sure what Mr. Gilmore expects out of actual activism for cancer research. Perhaps I am to go out and get a degree in biology and research myself?
(Top photo: Movember self-portrait by Billy Abbott; Bottom photo of Army Rangers in Vietnam via Bodenner)
The Dish 