WHY WE MADE MASKS
Designing a better mask to serve the most vulnerable.
Before Rumi Murakami the clothing brand existed, there was Rumi Murakami the social worker. For over 15 years I worked as a counselor with survivors of domestic violence. Over those many years, my design and counseling work existed separately simply because there weren't enough hours in the days and weeks to do both (not to mention raising my kids!). When the time came to dedicate myself to the clothing brand full-time, I promised myself I would find ways to continue impacting the ongoing social justice work in Hawai`i. Since launching Rumi Murakami seven years ago, this commitment has manifested through my time working at a women's shelter and as a victim advocate in the court system.
When the pandemic hit and shelter-in-place mandates were implemented, my thoughts were with my clients, some of the most vulnerable affected by the crisis; women and children trapped at home with their abusers. In response, I immediately jumped into action to find ways to support these families and the workers essential to their safety and wellbeing.
I want to continue supporting these women as well as the essential workers who reinforce these programs, which is why we have decided to make masks.
Here is how mask purchases support these women and children:
For every mask purchased, a mask will be donated to a community service organization. We chose these three because of their longstanding work in support of women and children affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse.
The residents and workers of the Ohi‘a Domestic Violence Shelter Emergency shelter and transitional housing
Clients of the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC) Legal advocacy and representation for victims of domestic violence
Patients of the Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children Emergency medical services for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault
You can also support these organizations with a direct donation by clicking through to their websites.
hamakua “blue rain” print
made of japan-woven 100% cotton
About the Masks
Design
As with everything we create, we made decisions with consideration to functionality, COMFORT, and style.
Sizing
Masks come in three sizes and are designed with easy access to insert your filter of choice.
Material
The masks are made of two layers of high quality, 100% woven cotton. They are designed to hold a filter layer (not included) and feature a wire inserted along the top edge to form-fit along the bridge of your nose.
We’re offering two prints. One is “Blue Rain” print fabric from our HAMAKUA line, a collaborative collection with eco-artist Laurie Sumiye. The other are cut from remnants of the Japan cottons from our personal collection.
Availability
This is a limited-run of 100 masks. Once we're out of the fabrics, we're out of the masks. **NOTE: Masks will start shipping May 23, 2020**
Health Disclaimer:
Cloth masks as recommended by the CDC do not prevent infection of Covid-19 and are not guaranteed to protect the wearer from airborne viruses. By purchasing our face mask, you release TRR Enterprises, Inc. DBA Rumi Murakami of any liability for anyone using the mask becoming infected with COVID-19 or any other viruses, bacterial infection, or any illness.
For best practice use of face mask, please refer to the CDC guidelines here and this in-depth article written by the New York Times here.
Final Thoughts
In addition to the reason stated in our message here, we started getting requests for masks from friends and family and you, our beloved community. The reality of mask as everyday necessity is upon us. We hope that our offerings will spark joy to this otherwise troubling new reality.