California Apparel News

Patagonia wants people to vote—specifically for environmental issues. To encourage voter participation, the company is closing for the day. That includes Patagonia’s headquarters in Ventura, Calif., its distribution center in Reno, Nev., and all 29 retail stores around the country.

“During a time of catastrophic environmental crisis, when America needs strong leadership to confront the fundamental threat of climate change, voter turnout threatens to reach historic lows as people are turned off by the ugliness of politics,” said Patagonia Chief Executive Rose Marcario, in a company statement. “As a business, we have a unique ability to take a stand and choose to prioritize the health of the planet over profit, and I think it’s important we take that opportunity when it truly matters. We want to do everything possible to empower citizens to make their voices heard and elect candidates up and down the ballot who will protect our planet.”

The outdoor and activewear manufacturer launched its Vote Our Planet campaign in September. The non-partisan environmental campaign "[urges] Americans to vote up and down the ballot to elect officials and support referendums that will defend our planet’s air, water and soil and protect the health and well-being of American families."

By Election Day (Nov. 8), Patagonia will have held nearly 60 environmental awareness events at its U.S. stores. The company, which has committed to spend more than $1 million this year on environmental issues, has released videos about the impact of environmental issues on local communities, and launched a website where consumers can find out more about regional environmental issues and the work of Patagonia’s grassroots partners.

And Patagonia is not alone. According to the website TakeOffElectionDay.com, several companies—including Spotify, TaskRabbit, Thrillist, Western Union, Tinder and S’well—are giving employees the day off to vote. The site even lists a few apparel companies—including Carbon38, Dia & Co., Primary and Joor. The website advocates companies recognize Election Day as a holiday (or, the site continues, “ at least an unofficial holiday”) for its US employees. There’s even a way for employees to send an anonymous email to their company asking for the day off.