Does Tommy Hilfiger Support PrEP?

A new t-shirt from designer Tommy Hilfiger could have a double meaning for some LGBT customers.

Sunnivie Brydum

Sunnivie is the managing editor of The Advocate, and an award-winning journalist whose passion is covering the politics of equality and elevating the unheard stories of our community. Originally from Colorado, she and her spouse now live in Los Angeles, along with their three fur-children: dogs Luna and Cassie Doodle, and "Meow Button" Tilly.

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Sunnivie Brydum

November 28 2014 4:02 PM EST

July 23 2019 3:22 AM EST

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Black Friday isn't generally an LGBT-focused event, but at least one t-shirt on sale at Macy's offers what could be a statement in support of a breakthrough treatment that can help prevent HIV infection in those most vulnerable.

A simple gray t-shirt with a breast pocket and faded white pattern at its center bears the words "IN PREP WE TRUST," along with a Hilfiger label emblazoned across the chest.

Certainly, the slogan could be a reference to the brand's traditionally preppy, Americana-infused style. Indeed, the description of the item on Macy's website reads "Power to the prepster!" encouraging customers to "sport this t-shirt from Tommy Hilfiger to show off your classic style."

However, LGBT customers might find a double meaning in the message, as a none-too-coded reference to pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, a once-daily pill that, taken as directed, has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection by up to 99 percent.

RELATED: Learn more about PrEP with The Advocate's comprehensive series, "31 Days of Prep."

It's unclear whether the designer was aware of the double-meaning, though Hilfiger himself has supported efforts to raise awareness and fund research about HIV and AIDS, including attending a 2005 gala hosted by the Elton John AIDS Foundation, according to the New York Times. The brand recently recieved a score of 70 (out of a possible 100) on the Human Rights Campaign's "Buying for Corporate Equality" listing, which rates companies based on the number and extent of LGBT-inclusive policies in place, in conjunction with HRC's Corporate Equality Index.