The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) was in full force in 2009 with many high-profile projects and endorsements. The theme “Ending the Lies” raised awareness with a direct approach: using the words of those speaking out, for and against the HRC.

One of the biggest challenges this year was to make the annual memorable, but not flashy and too-expensive looking. The oversize self-mailer format and lightweight enviro-friendly papers helped drive the design, but the report also uses visual verbiage to convey the thoughts, issues and challenges facing HRC. Direct quotes set in bold type convey the impact and importance of the report, while the non-typical color scheme gives softness (and uniqueness) to the otherwise text-heavy report.

My mind reels from seeing such hateful quotes on the cover, and realizing they’re all from elected officials. A great way to lead off an informative piece that’s also beautifully designed.

Bold and bright typography. Good use and strategic application of two-color design. Like the oversize newspaper format. Clean and smart grid system. Good concept for subject matter.