The words "NYU for Japan" are inscribed on a simple silicone bracelet, colored with red and purple and offset by a single NYU torch. The small trinket, while seemingly insignificant, is representative of a much larger project taking place on campus. The piece is part of an initiative between the Inter-Resident Hall Council and the Weinstein Residence Hall advisory team to raise awareness and funds for relief efforts in Japan.
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Tisch senior and Weinstein Programming Chair Jose Rivera said the bracelets were inspired by Lady Gaga, who designed her own brand of bracelets in support of Japan. For Rivera, the concept and design of the bracelets came naturally.
"I knew it needed to represent the colors of both NYU and Japan," he said. "'NYU for Japan' was a simple and strong tagline, but I knew it needed something extra — something unique and directly supportive of the relief efforts."
The bracelets will go on sale Friday, and all proceeds will be given to the American Red Cross. Rivera's hope is for the bracelets to be recognized throughout the NYU community and serve as a tribute of the tragic event.
"The bracelet is meant to bring the NYU community together and give them common grounds, regardless of the school they are in, background, sexuality, etc., and make them stand together to fight for a common cause," he said. "It's important that we keep Japan in our minds and in our hearts, and do whatever we can to restore their country."
Through the help of IRHC, news of the fundraiser has spread throughout the residence halls, where the bracelets will be on sale for $1, but students are encouraged to donate more. The Facebook event page already boasts a large following, and Rivera has also received queries about a similar project from Florida State University.
CAS junior and Japanese International Club president Julia Liu has been involved in a number of fund-raisers since the earthquake. Such efforts have inspired her to continue hosting events dedicated to the cause.
"I'm really glad to hear that so many people are on board with the bracelets," she said. "I feel optimistic that people will do the right thing and try to help out in any way they can."
Although the bracelets were scheduled to arrive on Tuesday and distributed to all the resident halls on the April 5, a manufacturing delay has caused the event to be pushed to Friday.
Steinhardt freshman Yuji Tsuchikawa has already pre-ordered four bracelets.
"As a international Japanese student, it is just truly nice to see people gather money for my country," she said. "Japan still needs help and I think it's important that we continue our efforts until the country does not need the support anymore."
