Skeptics Question Fashion Industry’s Philanthropy

The fashion industry’s embrace of charitable causes, such as the current campaign to aid Africa, raises eyebrows from skeptics who question whether such campaigns have more to do with image than substance, says fashion writer Robin Givhan in The Washington Post.

Yet supporters of the efforts say they help attract attention to causes that have failed to win broad public support.

Bobby Shriver, who, along with U2 frontman Bono, heads the (Product) Red project, says he is unconcerned about motives if the campaigns show results. The crimson-hued merchandise, sold by companies such as Apple Computer and the Gap, has raised $10-million for Africa in its first five months.

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