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WHEN CHEEKINESS GOES WRONG For decades, Hasbro has released special editions of Monopoly, including a Wizard of Oz edition, a National Parks edition, and even a Riverdale edition. While the special editions are typically made to celebrate a fandom or cater to niche audiences, Hasbro’s latest special edition of Monopoly, titled Monopoly for Millennials, totally misses the mark. In the game, players can’t buy properties because millennials “can't afford it anyway” (yes, it really says that on the game’s box), and instead of collecting cash, players collect “experiences points” by visiting destinations like a vegan bistro or a meditation retreat.
All we can say is… yikes. It’s not a joke that many millennials may never be able to afford property or have a large amount of savings, and it’s not a joke that they prioritize experiences over material things. Making matters worse, as millennials have complained over being made fun of by Hasbro, the company has committed to its POV by responding, “We think the game is 'lit' and didn't intend for it to be 'salty.'” This is an unfortunate example of how to alienate a large group of potential consumers, which brands should never strive to do. Inclusivity and offering products that are accessible for all kinds of people will always trump a cheeky joke, especially when it goes wrong.
CURBING FAST FASHION STMNT is the latest clothing startup that wants to slow down fast fashion. Based in Canada, the brand organizes pop-ups where shoppers can browse through each other’s “closets” for items they can rent and wear. The startup currently makes money by adding a 15% administration fee to all clothing rentals, and its 2019 goal is to launch an app where users can show off their “rentable” clothes and organize clothing swaps. Instead of focusing on how fashionistas can have the “newest” items, STMNT is pushing consumers to think about having items that are “new to them” by shopping in the wardrobes of those near them. Though there are numerous amazing sustainable brands, their items often come with hefty price tags, so we’re excited to see STMNT make sustainable clothing options accessible for all.
A NEW WAY FOR BRANDS TO SHARE CAUSE ENGAGEMENT Beam Impact is an up and coming app that connects young people with brands that support the causes that matter most to them. The app is a win-win-win (!) for users, businesses, and nonprofits alike because it places a “beam” (we had to) of light on brands that already have social good efforts, and makes it easy to engage with said efforts. Users get to choose where a brand will donate on their behalf, allowing them to build a deeper relationship with the brand while also donating to causes they care about without any extra effort. So far, Beam has partnered with brands like Dig Inn, Think Coffee, and Dos Toros while driving donations to 24 different non-profits. Cheers to Beam for recognizing that millennials are eagerly looking for brands that give back, and for making it easier to find them.
ICYMI*
Young people from Greece who experienced wildfires last summer are sending Californians words of encouragement and solidarity. Here’s how you can help those affected by the California wildfires.
Women in Ireland are posting photos of their underwear with the hashtag #ThisIsNotConsent to protest rape culture.
With a new Earth-themed clothing line, Jaden Smith hopes to expose Gen Z to better environmental and sustainable clothing practices.
Shopping on Instagram just got a lot easier, as users can now shop directly from video posts.
Nostalgia for the 90’s continues to thrive; Jell-O has announced its creation of edible slime. Now available in “Monster” and “Unicorn”.
*That's "In Case You Missed It."
Today's Quick Hit
Grey’s Anatomy star, Ellen Pompeo, expertly schooled all of us on how to be a proper ally to people of color.
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DoSomething Strategic (formerly TMI Strategy) is the data-driven consultancy arm of DoSomething.org. We help brands and organizations engage young people for positive social change.
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CURBING FAST FASHION
Grey’s Anatomy star, Ellen Pompeo, 
