Socially Conscious Shirts recently announced its partnership with Equality Pennsylvania to raise funds for LGBT rights as part of a t-shirt sale fundraiser. The Philadelphia-based shirt company created a “Love is Love” shirt in order to portray same-sex relationships in a positive light. The t-shirts are being sold throughout the summer downtown and at pride events around the state.

Originally, the idea sprung up from conversations between Socially Conscious Shirts Co-Founder Joel Bridger and Equality Pennsylvania President Adrian Shanker. Bridger is glad to support gay rights and show his enthusiasm for Equality Pennsylvania, but he considers this as just the beginning. He hopes that in the near future, other similar partnerships will emerge so the business can help spread awareness and fundraise for a variety of causes or events. Shanker, for his part, is excited to team up with a local business like Socially Conscious Shirts in order to expand his message and raise necessary money for outreach and educational activities.

The initial manifestation of Socially Conscious Shirts was as a major donor to Occupy Philly, so they are no strangers to raising aWEARness. In fact, in the month of October 2011 alone, the organization raised more than $1,000 for Occupy Philly through t-shirt sales.

In this partnership, Socially Conscious Shirts will be attending pride festivals with Equality Pennsylvania as well as selling shirts in Center City Philadelphia’s Gayborhood throughout the month of June. The t-shirts cost $15, with $5 from every purchase going directly to Equality Pennsylvania.

“These shirts sum-up our message and the thoughts of LGBT people and our allies everywhere,” explained Equality Pennsylvania’s Executive Director, Ted Martin. “Not only are they really great looking, they will be seen by many people and continue to spread the message that our families deserve nothing less than equality.”

Money raised for Equality Pennsylvania will be used for outreach and educational activities throughout the state, including workshop presentations, participation in regional conferences, and speaking at colleges, faith communities, businesses and labor unions about the need for expanded LGBT civil rights. Shirts are also available on SociallyConsciousShirts.com. If you happen to be downtown, keep an eye out for the t-shirt, stand and come out to show your support.