One word color responses like purple, white, beige, black appear without context on many female users’ Facebook pages. The colors are responses to the question, "What color is your bra?" The meme has gone viral but no one seems to know where it started or who started it.
Several observers and critics of the phenomenon question whether it isn’t really ‘slacktivism,’ feel-good online activism, in this case to raise breast cancer awareness, that has zero political or social impact.
Before we chalk it all up to slacktivism, better take note that Facebook fans of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation as well as donations to the American Cancer Society are up significantly since the "What color is your bra?" question was posted.
Breast Cancer Slacktivism
'What Color is Your Bra?" Campaign Goes Viral
Trend Themes
1. Social Media Activism - The viral 'What Color is Your Bra?' campaign highlights the power of social media in promoting awareness and activism.
2. Mystery Memes - The unknown origins of the 'What Color is Your Bra?' meme highlight the intrigue and viral nature of internet phenomena.
3. Impact of Online Engagement - The increase in donations to breast cancer organizations suggests that online campaigns like 'What Color is Your Bra?' can have a tangible impact on fundraising efforts.
Industry Implications
1. Nonprofit Organizations - Nonprofit organizations focused on breast cancer awareness and research can leverage social media to engage with a wider audience and increase donations.
2. Technology - Social media platforms can capitalize on the trend of viral memes to encourage user engagement and create innovative campaigns for social causes.
3. Fashion - The 'What Color is Your Bra?' meme demonstrates how the fashion industry can be used as a platform to spread awareness and support for important causes.