The Eyewear Designers of the CFDA (edCFDA) is pleased to announce the collective donation of $53,600 to the TransLatin@ Coalition, bringing the 2023 Pride Eyewear Initiative to its conclusion. The edCFDA is equally excited to announce the expansion of this charitable program from five to seven designers for 2024, all of whom will be announced shortly, along with an anticipated launch event in New York City in March.

For 2023, the designers of Blake Kuwahara, Christian Roth Eyewear, Krewe, l.a.Eyeworks and Selima Optique, each created a limited edition sunglass design, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Translatin@ Coalition, which is now the nation’s largest service and advocacy organization providing for the needs of the transgender, gender nonconforming, and intersex community.

Of the donation, Translatin@ Coalition President and CEO Bamby Salcedo notes, "We extend our deepest gratitude to l.a Eyeworks, Blake Kuwahara Eyewear, Christian Roth Eyewear, Selima Optique, and Krewe Eyewear for their generous donations. These funds empower us to strengthen our communities' infrastructure and advance our mission. It's heartening to see intentional companies like these recognize the significance of supporting trans-led organizations. Together, we are building the power of our people. Thank you for your invaluable contribution!"

The edCFDA Pride Eyewear Initiative is an annual charitable venture driven by independent eyewear designers of the CFDA to target and highlight specific needs within the LGBT+ community. Of the Initiative’s expansion into its third iteration in 2024, Christian Roth notes, “We are grateful for the support of the retailers who embrace our collective efforts to support a charitable cause through design. A meaningful way to make a positive impact on the community.“

Details regarding the designer participants for 2024 and the launch event are forthcoming in March. For inquiries, please contact christianroth@opticalaffairs.com

To learn more about the TransLatin@ Coalition, please visit www.translatinacoalition.org