Rachelle Hruska, founder of the clothing brand Lingua Franca, has been dropped by a major retailer after publicly speaking out against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The decision comes amid growing polarization over corporate activism and political expression in fashion.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Hruska launched Lingua Franca in 2016 as a non-political brand, initially focusing on embroidered cashmere sweaters inspired by her mother-in-law. The brand gained traction after a viral post featuring a sweater with the phrase "I miss Barack" in 2016, which raised funds for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
The brand later took a stance against ICE, leading to its removal from a major retailer. Hruska has stated that the backlash is worth the moral stand, despite financial consequences.
Deeper Dive & Context
Origins of the Brand
Lingua Franca began as a personal project for Hruska, who turned to embroidery as therapy during postpartum recovery. The brand gained attention after a collaboration with Net-a-Porter in 2016. Early designs featured phrases related to her mother-in-law, a single mother and surfer.
Political Shift
The brand's political shift began after Donald Trump's election in 2016. Hruska's "I miss Barack" sweater, created as a gift for a friend, went viral. The brand later donated $100 from each sweater to the ACLU in response to Trump's travel ban, which affected two Iranian embroiderers working for Lingua Franca.
Corporate Backlash
Hruska's decision to speak out against ICE has led to lost business, including being dropped by a major retailer. She has defended her stance, stating that the moral imperative outweighs financial losses.
Industry Reactions
The fashion industry has seen increasing polarization over political activism. Some brands embrace social causes, while others avoid controversy to maintain broad appeal. Lingua Franca's case highlights the risks and rewards of corporate activism.