Links for Synthesis Writing

http://www.gapinc.com/red/

www.avert.org/global-fund.htm

www.alertnet.org/db/blogs/1265/2007/02/9-194956-1.htm

http://www.pressureworks.org.uk/frontline/features/181006_red2.html

http://adage.com/article?article_id=115287

http://www.wheremostneeded.org/2007/03/where_bono_blun.html

Summary of the alertnet article "Bono rebrands 'sexy' Africa"

Even in his effort to "save Africa", Bono faces naysayers. According to Bono himself, 5,000 Africans are dying every day of AIDS. In order to raise awareness and money for those in need of medical attention due to the AIDS virus, he has teamed up with Apple, The Gap, Emporio Armani, Motorola, American Express, and Converse to create stylish products supporting the cause, in which a certain amount of revenue will be donated to Global Fund for the distribution of medication and medical care.

This seems like a noble cause, but is still met with much skepticism. The New York Times suggests that "the effort to chic out Africa" may come across as a hobby for the wealthy--a way to showcase expensive trends with an outer philanthropic appearance. Advertising Age calls them "Philanthropic Fashionistas". While this rings true, Bono maintains that as a global community, we are losing a fight against AIDS, and this is his way of fighting back.

Even still, it seems as if the companies are benefiting more than their causes. "Shop so the unfortunate can live" says Karen Heller of the Philadelphia Inquirer-in other words, these campaigns are feeding off of America's addiction to spending money. What about those who opt out of dropping $300 for an iPod when only ten dollars get donated, and instead donate the full $300? They don't get the kindness mark, because these campaigns are all about show. More money has gone to the advertising of the products for the campaign than the actual cause itself. Yes, spend money to make money is a common used phrase, but maybe in philanthropic situations, the opposite should be true.

Brenjo, Nina. "Bono rebrands 'sexy' Africa". Reuters Foundation Alertnet. 09 March 2007. 03 October 2007. http://www.alertnet.org/db/blogs/1265/2007/02/9-194956-1.htm