Pride celebrations have evolved since their inception in the 1960s, initially born from protest against oppression rather than corporate marketing. Recently, there's been a noticeable retreat from some corporations that previously championed LGBTQ+ rights, citing security concerns and changing consumer attitudes. This shift highlights a troubling commodification of Pride, reducing the movement to a marketing line item. The article emphasizes the need for genuine support and recognition of LGBTQ+ rights beyond mere branding, calling for a return to the foundational principles of Pride as a form of resistance and a fight for dignity and respect.
But this year feels different. Some of the same companies that once proudly displayed the Pride flag now seem to have folded it up and relegated it to the back of the closet.
When our representation depends on a quarterly risk report to shareholders, we must recognize that we are line items in their marketing budgets, not living, breathing human beings deserving of dignity, visibility, and respect.
Pride was never designed to be a marketing event, nor did it start out as a party. Pride was born out of protest.
Their actions are not just historical facts, they are the foundation upon which modern Pride celebrations and our rights as equal citizens are built.
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