Men Are Painting One Fingernail To Help Spread A Very Important Message

When Elliot Costello met a little girl who had been abused, she made such an impression on him that he was inspired to do something to help children like her all over the world.

Costello, who co-founded YGAP, a group that specializes in fundraising and social enterprises, has begun an awareness campaign to encourage men to stand up against sexual violence against kids.

Costello was visiting Cambodia where he met Thea. She had suffered abuse for several years but had thankfully found a safe place to live. They painted their nails together and he promised he would always have one of his nails painted to remember her by.

And that’s how the Polished Man movement began. Men are being encouraged to paint one fingernail to show that they are a Polished Man.

With the fact that 1 in 5 children will be a victim of physical or sexual abuse by the age of 18, Costello believes that men have an important role in helping protect children from harm.

According to YGAP’s website, “being a Polished Man means challenging violent behavior and language, both locally and globally. By promoting positive male role models who support equality and child rights, we can create a community of male change-makers.”

The campaign has just begun and it’s a simple way to get the message out. Costello hopes the movement grows and said, “This year we are taking the campaign global to further extend this message. YGAP believes that men all over the world have a leading role to play in ensuring children feel safe and reach their full potential.”

So next time you see a man with one painted nail, ask him who he’s supporting and help raise awareness to help end violence against children.

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