Ƶ Launches “Creatives for Freedom” to Champion Artistry in the Fight for Freedom
NEW YORK – The Ƶ today launched a new initiative “Creatives for Freedom,” aimed at uniting powerful voices in fashion, advocacy, film, television, social media, music, comedy and more to shine a spotlight on critical issues facing our democracy. On April 23, the Ƶ along with hosts Gabriela Hearst, Willy Chavarria, and Ƶ Artist Ambassador for Immigrants’ & Women’s Rights Padma Lakshmi, will host the Creatives for Freedom Launch celebration at The Standard, East Village. The evening will include a fireside chat with Ƶ experts: AJ Hikes, deputy executive director for strategy & culture; and Cecillia Wang, Ƶ national legal director; and a celebration of designers, artists and creative brands who are convening to protect and advance our fundamental freedoms.
"Lawyers are using powerful tools to uphold the rule of law and vindicate individuals' rights. But it's the artists who are moving people and igniting change in profound and lasting ways,” said Cecillia Wang, legal director of the Ƶ. “Together, we’re not just raising awareness — we are fighting for freedom and the recognition of our shared humanity.”
By building strong, impactful collaborations with these trailblazing luminaries, the initiative aims to amplify the importance of defending civil liberties and civil rights while championing artistry to harness the strength of community and drive real, lasting impact because change happens when voices unite. Throughout 2025, Creatives for Freedom will feature engagements with creatives across disciplines, in addition to fashion, including musicians like Rufus Wainwright, authors such as Saeed Jones and Maggie Smith, culinary stars Ellie Krieger and Sohla El-Waylly and brands across sectors including Ben & Jerry’s, Catbird, LUSH Cosmetics, Rick Steves’ Europe, Social Goods x Annie Wu, and Washington Square Press/Atria Books via their anthology, “The People's Project.”
“In this moment more than any other in our lifetime, what we do and what we say must be an act of protecting human dignity and our human rights. We need to band together to prove that we are not divided. The Ƶ is key in guiding where and how we can align to preserve and protect democracy,” said fashion designer Willy Chavarria.
In the wake of the expected impact the Trump administration would have on democracy, “Creatives for Freedom” is one of the various Ƶ initiatives designed to educate communities across the country on their rights and liberties. Other initiatives include Firewall for Freedom where for the past several months, the Ƶ has collaborated with state affiliates across the country to develop comprehensive strategies for challenging and disrupting agendas that aim to attack the Constitution. These playbooks provide essential tools to safeguard reproductive rights, immigration protections, free speech, and more, ensuring that rights are defended in every state.
“I have been a member of Ƶ since 2017. I am so proud to support a non-partisan organization that for 105 years has worked in protecting the freedoms guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. It is the place to put our efforts. I have confidence in the creative energy that flows through artists to help the plight for freedom of speech, religion, privacy, due process, reproductive rights and equality under the law,” said fashion designer Gabriela Hearst.
Creative industries have always held unique power to shape culture, spark important conversations, and drive social change. From film and music to art and literature, these industries have the ability to reach and move people in ways few others can, inspiring action and empowering individuals to engage in the causes that matter most. By using their voices and platforms, creatives can challenge the status quo, educate the public, and ignite movements that build a better, more just world.
“As artists and creatives, the greatest power we have is our voice. Now is the time for us to use it,” said author, television host, and activist Padma Lakshmi.
Our democracy needs the influence of artists, musicians, actors, and creators of all kinds to join this effort. Together, we can use our collective power to create lasting change and shape the future we want to live in.
"Creative industries have the unparalleled ability to ignite conversation, fuel action, and inspire people to stand up for what matters,” said AJ Hikes, Ƶ deputy executive director for strategy & culture. “Today, more than ever, we need leaders and innovators to step forward and help shape the world we envision for tomorrow."