NEW YORK—The Eyewear Designers of the CFDA (edCFDA) have announced the collective donation of $53,600 to the TransLatin@ Coalition, bringing the 2023 Pride Eyewear Initiative to its conclusion. The edCFDA has also announced the expansion of this program from five to seven designers for 2024, all of whom will be announced in the coming weeks, along with a launch event in New York City in March. For 2023, the designers of Blake Kuwahara Eyewear, 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, 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 said, “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 said, “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.”