American Apparel makes an effort to support immigrant issues in LA

American Apparel, Los Angeles based clothing company, announced its most recent effort towards helping the L.A. immigrant issue on 29 April. The traditional L.A. brand released its limited edition Immigration Integration shirt that donates 20 percent of all proceeds from sales to the New Americans Opportunity Fund.

American Apparel has been infamous for their controversial pieces in the past that have supported immigration reform and the LGBT communities. In the past, the brand has manufactured t-shirts with text reading "Legalize LA" and "Legalize Gay" in support of these issues. “For years, American Apparel has advocated for and worked passionately in support of immigration reform,” said Paula Schneider, American Apparel’s CEO. This most recent addition includes the immigration tee that resembles an American flag. Since April 28th, the t-shirt has been available in five Southern California stores including Westwood, Little Tokyo, the Factory Store, Echo Park, and Melrose. Starting May 15th, the shirt will be available in its remaining retailers. The company will donate 20 percent of every shirt that is bought until the end of this year.

The New Americans Opportunity Fund, established by the California Community Foundation (CC), supports nonprofits that help immigrants achieve the status they need to help keep families together in L.A. The program provides a way for immigrants gain eligibility to useful initiatives such as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents.

The popular brand is one of the largest clothing manufacturers in North America. Known for its basic, simplistic style and high-quality clothes, the downtown L.A. label has become a staple for California fashion. The company currently operates in over 20 countries with 242 retail stores.