In recent months, the Black Lives Matter movement has done a lot to highlight the issue of systemic racism in the US. And following months of worldwide protests and marches, you may be left wondering what you, as an individual, can do to make a difference.
Well, as it turns out there are more unconventional forms of activism that you might want to try in your local area.
Just take inspiration from one anonymous Texas-based graphic designer, who has been re-labeling grocery store cans in a bid to inform locals that there is still a lot of work to do in the fight for equality.
Posting images of the items on Twitter, reporter Alex Zielinski wrote:
"One of my San Antonio friends has been using his graphic design skillz to re-label grocery store cans with facts about local/national police issues and I’m so impressed."
In the images, one can of Ocean Spray cranberries can be seen alongside regular versions of the product.
Visually, the difference is subtle but on closer inspection, the new label replaces "Ocean Spray" with the more urgent-sounding "Priorities". It also reads: "San Antonio City just added $8.1 Million to the Police Budget."
Furthermore, the designer's label for Campbell’s soup is printed with the world "Justice" in a similar font to the original can, while also including names and pictures of Black people who were killed by the police.
This woman befriended a four-year-old girl who yelled out 'Black Lives Matter':There are also containers with images of police in riot gear alongside a message urging authorities to bring an end to police violence.
Zielinski also explained to her followers that her friend wanted to remain anonymous, writing: "He doesn’t want recognition, just wants to elevate these issues."
The Portland reporter then went on to say that anyone can access the labels and replace them with grocery store labels in their local area.
Tweeting a Google Drive link to the labels, she reveals the activist had chosen to make them public.
The designer writes in a note alongside the labels, that he is "buying these things from the grocery store. Wrapping them at home, then taking them back to the grocery store and placing them back on the shelves."
He adds: "Note that some of these labels say the cost was donated to a cause."
He also warns others against placing the labels "on HEB shelves," adding: "I got a letter from them warning me to stop or legal action would be taken."
What do you think? Is this an effective way of bringing attention to Social Justice issues?