Poke the Bear

Most women would rather be alone in the woods with a bear than a man. We decided it was time to Poke the Bear and get Smokey to help us champion gender-based violence prevention.

Clios Bronze Integrated Campaign 2025

Clios Bronze Public Relations Campaign 2025

AD: Elizabeth Phelps & Sarah Croibier

When asked, 'Would you rather be in the woods with a man or a bear?' women chose the bear.

Smokey the Bear knows better than anyone that inaction can make gender-based violence spread like wildfire.

Smokey’s redesign replaced his shovel with a violet.

The violet is a historic symbol of women’s movements and a North American wildflower.

Smokey’s introduction took place at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Prints are displayed throughout rural and urban parks of America.

Assess, Act, Advocate

Fire safety signs are located next to public restrooms and in low-light areas.

Trail maps outline Smokey’s simple steps to preventing gender-based violence.

Truck stop urinals are frequented by outdoor adventurers.

Park rangers will be equipped with “friend of smokey” badges to be marked as a safe reporting space.

How will you be a friend of Smokey’s?