Friendship bracelets had never been the typical jewelry worn by people attending a political convention, but these are not traditional times politically.
Still, The New York Times thought it was worth noting that people at last week’s Democratic National Convention were wearing and trading friendship bracelets. It certainly seemed to fit into the mood of that Chicago gathering, where Kamala Harris accepted the party nomination for president.
The Times pointed out on its Style section’s Instagram account that the daughter of Harris’ running mate, Tim Walz, was wearing friendship bracelets as she walked the convention floor. Also, a North Dakota delegate named Kari Breker brought her friendship bracelet stack to the Windy City, prepping it in advance with other delegates.
Is this leftover sparkle from the summer of Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, where concertgoers exchanged friendship bracelets in honor of a Swift song? Or was it a way for convention attendees to feel a little bit of friendliness during a challenging election season?
To find out more, JCK reached out to our resident friendship bracelet expert for commentary. Adriana Carrig is CEO of Little Words Project, a jewelry company she founded to boost kindness and friendship in the world, one bracelet at a time.
“Word bracelets have continued to gain momentum in 2024 because the desire for self-expression and connection is timeless,” Carrig says. “We live in an increasingly disconnected world, where consistent digital connection feels impersonal. Word bracelets offer a tangible way to share messages that reflect our identity and personal belief systems. They’re a wearable representation of ideas that are often intangible.”
Little Words is in the midst of introducing a “vote” bracelet (pictured at top) in time for the Nov. 5 election, and Carrig believes more than anyone else in the power of words and their ability to inspire and empower through their messages—especially on great jewelry.
“In today’s politically charged environment, it’s critical for us to emphasize that every voice matters. Our bracelets allow individuals to share their values and advocate for causes they believe in, in a subtle yet impactful way,” she says.
“This helps to encourage dialogue and awareness around important issues,” Carrig continues. “In a hyperpolarized political landscape, fostering open conversation led with respect and kindness is an undervalued gesture. Word bracelets offer a simple form of expression that is both accessible and customizable, serving as a meaningful reminder to participate in the political conversation with thoughtfulness and respect.”
Carrig says she was not surprised to see word bracelets find a home at a political convention, even in 2024. “Whether it’s at a concert, for a philanthropic cause, or used with personal identifiers, it’s an easy way to subtly share your story and personal beliefs.
“In a setting like a political convention, it makes sense that individuals are eager to express their beliefs, connect with similarly minded people, and support their candidate,” she says.
“Word bracelets offer a simple yet impactful way to spark conversation and make a statement. Their presence in these various spheres reflects the evolving ways people engage with and advocate for their causes.”
We all could use more kindness in the world. And politics today definitely could use more friendship.
“The last couple elections have become increasingly polarized, making it more important than ever to foster kindness and mutual respect,” Carrig says. “Rather than dismissing those with different beliefs, it’s essential we encourage open dialogue and understanding in order to make meaningful progress.
“We believe this approach can help bridge divides and create a more collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued,” she says. “Bringing this spirit into the political sphere can help us all work toward solutions that benefit the greater good.”
(Photos courtesy of Little Words Project)
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