Elliot Costello’s meeting with a young girl named Thea in Cambodia ignited a campaign against child sexual abuse. Thea, who is a survivor of abuse, painted one of Elliot’s fingernails while they spoke. He vowed to maintain the nail’s polish as a reminder of her pain, which led to the creation of the #PolishedMan movement.
PolishedMan motivates men to paint a single nail as a representation of the one in five children impacted by sexual violence. The initiative seeks to confront violent behavior and language on a global scale. Elliot emphasizes that men account for 96% of this abuse directed at children and must lead the effort for change.
“While she was applying polish to one of my nails, I promised her that I would maintain it in that manner as a reminder of her, and consequently, her pain,” Elliot remarked.
The colored nail acts as a catalyst for discussions regarding child abuse and promotes awareness for prevention initiatives. Contributions aid educational programs for child survivors. The aspiration is for a greater number of men, including public figures, to participate in this vital movement. Disseminate this message to enhance awareness.
