Design for advocacy: Wearing YES
In 2023, I designed and wore a bold “YES” shirt supporting constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the creation of an advisory Voice. Typography became my form of participation — a way to carry advocacy into everyday spaces. The lettering is my Newy colour font, vibrant and layered, designed to feel alive with possibility. I wanted the word YES to feel active and hopeful.
The referendum result did not deliver the outcome many hoped for, but advocacy is not measured in wins and losses — it’s measured in conversations and courage practiced publicly. I recently wore the shirt again on Australia Day / Invasion Day, not in protest but for continuity from year to year. Advocacy doesn’t end with a vote — it continues where we show up visibly and intentionally. We all have different ways that we express our innermost thoughts. This was my creative way of encouraging awareness and support for First Nations people.
