Commercial brands don’t exist in a vacuum. Their products and processes affect peoples and places. And under the slightest scrutiny, most producers fall short of being model citizens.

Many companies divert your attention by changing the conversation. The first sentence from McDonald’s “Values” page reads: “From the start, we’ve been committed to doing the right thing.” (Oh really?) Gap has a whole boilerplate “social responsibility” microsite set up. (Vague promises are vague.)

But some companies invite you into the conversation. Apolis Activism is one such brand. Instead of hiding behind layers of marketing, they embrace transparency. Founded by three brothers in Los Angeles, California, Apolis (which translates as “global citizen”) creates clothing and gear with an unwavering commitment to social responsibility. This philosophy is woven through the entire supply chain, spelling out exactly who they work with, place of origin, types of materials, and economic effect.

For example, their “Nepal Project” partnered with ethical producer Citta International Co-op to make a sweater and a hat that provided jobs for 50 knitters for 60 days.

Information is moving quicker. It’s becoming more accessible. Fewer and fewer companies will be able to avoid the hard questions or cover them up with cleverly strategic marketing. As brands become more conspicuous, it’s time to start thinking about what people can see on the other side.

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