Characters Unite on TV

Look for on-air PSAs this month on USA (in between those reruns of Law & Order). During Characters Unite Month, the network (which is owned by NBC – which is owned by Philly-based Comcast) is profiling those who stand up against discrimination with special spots, documentaries, a digital campaign and even a tour that makes a pit stop in L.A. to bring awareness to injustices. There are also events planned in New York City (Feb. 8 – 9) and Washington D.C. (Feb. 28) where fans are invited to create their own custom-made “I Won’t Stand For…” T-shirts.

“Characters Unite Month is a time to put a much-needed spotlight on the importance of fighting hate and discrimination,” explains Chris McCumber, USA’s co-president. “Huge problems such as bullying, racism, religious intolerance and other forms of discrimination can seem insurmountable. We want to let everyone, everywhere, know that they can make a difference, just simply by speaking up and saying I won’t stand for it anymore.”

An event in L.A. this month, hosted by out Tony winner Nathan Lane, will also feature a slew of celebs, including Dustin Lance Black, the openly gay Academy Award-winning screenwriter of Milk.

Fans are also invited to submit their own videos online by clicking here.

Picking up where the It Gets Better campaign left off, the new promotion features cast members from such shows as Royal Pains, Covert Affairs and White Collar, standing up against discrimination – including homophobia. Fans can also go online to access exclusive video content, including short films that tell personal stories from real people.

Check it out: