The 9th Annual Blue Jacket Fashion Show
The 9th Annual Blue Jacket Fashion Show made a powerful statement on Tuesday, February 4, at LAVAN in New York City, marking the start of New York Fashion Week while aligning with World Cancer Day. The event, which brought together celebrities, advocates, and fashion icons, aimed to raise awareness and funds to support the prostate cancer community, improve early detection, and reduce mortality rates.
The star-studded evening featured appearances by notable figures such as Bill Nye, Mario Cantone, J. Harrison Ghee, Don Lemon, Jeezy, Nigel Barker, Wilson Cruz, Tamron Hall, Meredith Marks, and more. The event also showcased stunning fashion moments, with photography courtesy of Getty Images, capturing the essence of the blue carpet and runway.
A Fashion Show with a Purpose
The Blue Jacket Fashion Show, now in its ninth year, has become a cornerstone event for prostate cancer advocacy. Presented by Johnson & Johnson and supported by LISC, the show benefits ZERO Prostate Cancer, the nation’s leading advocacy, awareness, and support foundation. ZERO Prostate Cancer works tirelessly to provide lifesaving early detection and treatment resources, aiming to reduce mortality rates and support those affected by the disease.
In addition to the live event, Fashion Group International (FGI) hosted viewing parties across the country, including in Chicago, Philadelphia, San Antonio, Washington DC, Saint Louis, and Kansas City. The event also offered free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screenings provided by Mount Sinai Hospital, available throughout the day at Carver Bank and the Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation.
Prostate Cancer: A Critical Issue
Prostate cancer remains the second most common cancer among cisgender American men and the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in this demographic. In 2025, nearly 300,000 people are expected to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis, with over 35,000 projected to die from the disease. The risk is even higher for people of color:
– Black individuals face a 70% higher incidence of prostate cancer compared to white individuals.
– Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis among Latinos, with over 13,000 cases diagnosed annually in the U.S.
– Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) are more likely to present with higher-grade and later-stage disease due to fewer screening opportunities.
– Transgender individuals, while having lower rates of prostate cancer, may experience nearly double the mortality rates compared to cisgender males.
Family history also plays a significant role in prostate cancer risk, making early detection and regular screenings critical. The Blue Jacket Fashion Show emphasizes the importance of these conversations, particularly within at-risk communities, to encourage more people to get screened, diagnosed, and treated.
### The Blue Jacket Initiative
Founded in 2016 by Frederick Anderson, the Blue Jacket Fashion Show was created to provide a platform for open discussions about men’s health, focusing on cancer education, early detection, prevention, and treatment options. The initiative has grown into a powerful movement, combining fashion, advocacy, and community engagement to drive change.
About the Partners
Johnson & Johnson: A global leader in healthcare innovation, Johnson & Johnson is committed to building a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured. Through its expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, the company strives to deliver breakthroughs that profoundly impact health for humanity.
LISC: As one of the country’s largest community development organizations, LISC works to close systemic gaps in health, wealth, and opportunity. Since its founding in 1979, LISC has invested $32 billion to create affordable housing, develop community spaces, and improve financial stability for thousands of people.
ZERO Prostate Cancer: The leading national nonprofit dedicated to ending prostate cancer, ZERO provides support, advances research, and creates solutions to achieve health equity. Recognized for its impactful programs, ZERO dedicates 85 cents of every dollar to support, education, and research.
Fashion Group International (FGI): Founded in 1928, FGI is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting and supporting fashion professionals at every level. Through education, networking, and high-profile events, FGI fosters creativity and innovation in the fashion industry.
A Night to Remember
The 9th Annual Blue Jacket Fashion Show was more than just a fashion event; it was a celebration of resilience, advocacy, and community. By blending style with substance, the show continues to make a meaningful impact in the fight against prostate cancer, inspiring hope and action for a healthier future.
For more information about the Blue Jacket Fashion Show, ZERO Prostate Cancer, and how to support the cause, visit [zerocancer.org](https://zerocancer.org/).
Donate: Support the FGI Rising Stars and Blue Jacket Fashion Show by contributing to the Zero Cancer fund.
Photos Credits: Getty Images for Blue Jacket