I became drawn to the idea of creating lapel pins as a response to the pins that were being worn after September 11, 2001. In much the same way that mass-marketed political and awareness ribbon lapel pins work, my lapel pins label the wearer as part of a political idea or movement. The lapel is the site where political ideas are most often displayed on the body; it is near the face, easily seen and accessible. The lapel pin invites discussion about its meaning, and encourages people to talk about political ideas. The current political climate and mass marketing have moved political discourse out of the realm of ideas and into consumerism. It is socially taboo in most places to discuss politics, and most people when asked avoid political questions. The use of surprise and parody is central to my work. The lapel pins use familiar slogans and patriotic imagery, but turn them on their head and parody them. I intend to create dialogue in new arenas, to use images instead of words to initiate change, and to use humor to open conversations.