Down, boys, down—although Jessica Alba in bondage may send the hormones of red-blooded men (and women, in some cases) soaring, that was not the intention of Declare Yourself, a national nonpartisan, nonprofit campaign, that encourages young people to register to vote—and vote.
How does Jessica feel about the youth vote? According to People.com, Alba says, "I think it is important for young people to be aware of the need we have in this country to get them more active politically. People respond to things that are shocking."
Jessica Alba in bondage, naked and wrapped with electrical tape (internet buzz likens the ad to scenes from the horror flicks "Hostel" or "Saw"), for Declare Yourself isn’t the first shocking tactic the campaign has used to capture the youth vote. Other celebrity endorsements have included Christina Aguilera, her lips threaded shut with leather; Jonathan Bennett, his lips shut with three screws; Andre, gagged by a yellow polka dot bow; and LaToya with a nail through her lips—all with tears streaming down their face.
Declare Yourself has also featured unknowns with their lips closed together using staples, fishhooks, and silenced with a ball gag.
The motto for Declare Yourself is, "Only you can silence yourself. Make them hear you. Register to vote now."
Teen Icons To Entice Voters
Jessica Alba for Declare Yourself
Trend Themes
1. Shocking Celebrity Endorsements - Harness the power of celebrity endorsements that shock and grab attention to promote your cause or campaign.
2. Using Provocative Imagery - Utilize provocative imagery that sparks conversation and drives awareness for important social issues or movements.
3. Youth Political Activism - Tap into the growing desire among young people to get politically active and engage them in causes that matter.
Industry Implications
1. Nonprofit Organizations - Nonprofit organizations can explore innovative ways to capture attention and motivate youth engagement through shocking and provocative marketing campaigns.
2. Political Campaigns - Political campaigns can leverage the power of celebrity endorsements and provocative imagery to increase voter registrations and engage young voters.
3. Social Activism - The social activism sector can tap into the rising interest in political activism among the youth and create movements that make a meaningful impact.