Versace’s Post

Happy Pride Month! It’s a tricky time for the LGBTQIA+ community, with many brands scaling back their Pride campaigns… but brands that do are missing opportunities with queer communities. Outvertising recently shared telling data in their latest consumer report: 67% of LGBTQIA+ people are likely to recommend products based on ads, with the number increasing for gen z and decreasing for non-queer people. LGBTQIA+ folk also have been revealed to have a higher expectation for advertising, asking brands to feature real people. They’re an audience that craves authenticity and messaging that resonates with their experiences - as multifaceted, intersectional people. Because brand campaigns shouldn’t be focused on “only” queer communication. Instead brands should communicate authentically, and include LGBTQIA + folk in their comms. This means bringing queer people into campaigns in an authentic and inclusive manner. It means testing with LGBTQIA+ folk, and building up your allyship credentials with the community. It also means sticking to your guns in the unlikely event there is backlash (more Nike than Budlight). We’re in a time where attitudes towards the LGBTQIA+ are becoming more negative, brands are in a position where they can help change attitudes and normalise the LGBTQIA + experience - which is a wonderfully powerful place to be this PRIDE month, standing in inclusive allyship. How is your brand celebrating Pride month this year? How are you standing in allyship this Pride? ID: Orange background, white text "Happy PRIDE month!", with the pride stripes in the bottom right corner. #pridemonth2024 #pride #prideMonth #inclusiveBrands #inclusiveMarketing #makingADifference

The Recite Me styling tool was used on the TPP website 94 times in March allowing people to customise features such as font colour and size to make it more accessible for them. Find out more about Recite Me and how to make your website more accessible here: https://lnkd.in/eXnjkSps #Accessibility #Equality #Inclusion

It was a great honor to be asked to share some thoughts about Pride, coming out, and what great allyship looks like during my keynote address for EssilorLuxottica, the world’s largest eyewear company.” As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s important for leaders to understand the significance of communicating with the LGBTQ+ community, which makes up 3.5% of the global population and represents a market worth approximately $3.7 trillion. Leaders should consider that employees who hide their identities at work can lose up to 10% of their productivity. My own experience as a closeted news reporter in the 1980s showed me how consuming this fear can be. Empathy goes beyond superficial gestures; it requires understanding and respect for each individual’s unique journey. Avoid making assumptions or using insensitive language. Effective allyship involves being vulnerable, using inclusive language, and genuinely listening to LGBTQ+ colleagues. By fostering an environment where everyone can be their authentic selves, we can improve workplace productivity and create a more inclusive and supportive culture for all. Everybody deserves to be treated how you want to be treated. Be confident that if you treat someone as a human being they’ll respond to you as one.

The Recite Me styling tool was used on the TPP website 94 times in March allowing people to customise features such as font colour and size to make it more accessible for them. Find out more about Recite Me and how to make your website more accessible here: https://lnkd.in/eEADvFA4 #Accessibility #Equality #Inclusion

"What's your favourite colour?" Is the most difficult question for a designer 😂 I'm like well, depends in what context - interior decor, apps, branding? I value ALL colours for different reasons. But if I HAD to choose what colour represents me at current state it would have to bed red and here's why.. People view red as something that represents heat, activity, passion, sexuality, anger, love, and joy. I agree with these associations but I'd also add bold. Something that wants to be seen, isnt trying to blend in or hide away. Its noticeable, it stands out. I used to blend in, wear neutral tones, follow the fashion trends and conform to what everyone else would be wearing/doing. It didn't feel right or authentically what I am comfortable in. I never felt comfortable in school uniform especially dresses (I was a huge tomboy as a kid), yet was forced to wear it which affected how I acted around people because I felt like a fish out of water. Now being unapologetically myself, I wear what I like, not what everyone else does. I will wear contrasting colours, more retro, out there things and even starting to make my own earrings (and want to make my own clothes!). The point is here I guess: Do whatever you feel is right, wear whatever you feel most comfortable in and be who you truly are. Authenticity is the key to a happy life <3 #authenticity #lgbtq #mentalhealth #design #diversity #inclusion

If you haven't noticed by all the corporate rainbows, logos and pride window decals in shop fronts - June is Pride Month.    As I get ready for London Pride tomorrow, being lucky enough to march alongside my community as part of the Alpha Dancers for the second year, I have been thinking about this post and what I wanted to say in it.   There has been a lot of discourse about Pride month and the 'rainbow washing' that we see around (rainbow washing is what we call companies who use LGBTQIA+ symbolism to sell products without being earnestly in favour of, or otherwise contributing to the cause). Every year I see the question of whether there is even still a need for Pride come up. Dan Savage had a really insightful and interesting intro on his latest episode of Savage Lovecast (Episode 922, highly recommend listening!) He talked about how in countries like the U.K. and the U.S. we may see these rainbows and start thinking 'is this too much?' But in other areas of the world there are no rainbows, there are no Pride Parades and even the image of a rainbow in the window of a shop could get you jailed, or much worse.   Pride started as a protest. The Stonewall uprising in 1696 in New York City rocketed the queer rights movement and is an important moment in our history. It is sometimes hard for relatively young people like me, who go into London Pride, to remember that.   London Pride is more of a celebration. The atmosphere is fantastic and energising and beautiful.  We need to remember that we may be able to dance and celebrate in the streets of London, but we do that, because so many people cannot.    This is also why intersectionality matters. As a White Queer person in the UK my experiences are not the same as Queer POC in the UK. Period. End of sentence.   This is why it is important as White people to stop and listen, understand and support POC and marginalised people when they talk. We need to use our voices to amplify theirs. We need to ensure we are elevating their voices and making intentional spaces for them on our platforms - the platforms we can take for granted sometimes.   Until ALL queer people around the world are safe, acknowledged and seen - until all people have the same rights as their straight, CIS, White counterparts, Pride will continue to be a protest.   Both a protest and a celebration of our existence. #pride #queer #pridemonth #june

Happy Pride Month! 🌈 Salons have often served as sanctuaries for those seeking refuge from a world that may not fully understand or accept them. In the face of adversity, the LGBTQ+ community found solace within these sacred spaces. The beauty industry became a powerful tool for empowerment, acceptance, and the celebration of diversity. Fast forward to today, and these values of inclusivity and acceptance continue to shape the beauty industry. Beauty professionals have become a haven where clients of all walks of life and identities can freely express themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. 🏳️🌈 Services provided in these LGBTQ+-friendly spaces go far beyond mere aesthetics. They are a form of self-expression, a way for us to communicate our identities and celebrate our authentic selves. It's incredible to witness the transformative power that a fresh haircut or a bold makeup look can have on someone's confidence and sense of belonging. 🏳️🌈The beauty industry has actively embraced diversity and representation, making it a point to champion LGBTQ+ voices and showcase their talent. From hairstylists to makeup artists, these professionals have used their platforms to inspire and uplift others, breaking down stereotypes and paving the way for future generations. They have shown us that true beauty lies in embracing our differences and finding strength in our shared experiences. Let's celebrate the beauty industry and its unwavering commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces for everyone. Let's recognize the crucial role the LGBTQ+ community has played in shaping the industry we know and love. Together, we can continue to nurture an environment that fosters self-expression, acceptance, and love. 💜♥️💙💛💚

In a world as diverse as ours, it’s about time that brands reflect the beautiful spectrum of humanity! 🌍 ✨ 2024 marks a year where inclusivity isn’t just a trend; it’s a mission. Brands are stepping up, celebrating every color, shape, and story. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all illustrations and generic representations. We're embracing the real, the relatable, and the uniquely beautiful in every person.  From adding more ethnicities and body types to challenging gender norms, our illustrations are becoming a mirror to the world we live in. It’s about seeing yourself in the brands you love and knowing you belong. Let’s celebrate the diversity that makes us who we are, with designs that are as inclusive as they are inspiring. Because when we see each other, really see each other, the world becomes a more connected place.

Embracing Diversity in Brand Representation. This helped brands connect authentically with the LGBTQ+ community. Tokenism is out – real stories are in. Learn how to move beyond tokenism with these insights: ☑ Discover impactful campaigns: 1. Nike's "Be True" – Celebrating LGBTQ+ athletes 2. Skittles' Pride packs – Colorless candies, colorful message 3. Absolut's "Kiss with Pride" – Highlighting historic moments 4. Levi's Pride Collection – Inclusivity in fashion 5. Starbucks' "What's Your Name?" – Supporting trans identities ☑ Understand key elements for authentic representation: 1. Genuine storytelling 2. Diverse casting 3. Inclusive language 4. Community involvement 5. Long-term commitment ☑ Leverage powerful strategies for inclusive marketing: 1. Collaborations with LGBTQ+ creators 2. Supporting LGBTQ+ causes 3. Transparent and honest messaging 4. Consistent representation across platforms ☑ Optimize your brand's approach to inclusion: 1. Internal education and training 2. Inclusive workplace policies 3. Celebrating LGBTQ+ events 4. Listening to LGBTQ+ voices 5. Continuous learning and improvement ☑ Take in top tips for authentic representation: 1. Avoid stereotypes 2. Show, don't tell 3. Engage with the community 4. Be mindful of intersectionality 5. Celebrate diversity year-round ☑ Ensure every campaign respects and uplifts LGBTQ+ experiences. Embrace a strategy that includes: 1. Thoughtful content creation 2. Meaningful partnerships 3. Transparent communication 4. Consistent support for LGBTQ+ rights Save and study this today, to start your journey towards authentic representation tomorrow.

🏳️🌈Happy Pride Month to everyone who is celebrating🏳️🌈 As we welcome Pride Month, it's a time to reflect on the progress we've made towards equality and to recognize the work still ahead. Let’s stand togeather as An LGBTQ+ community in celebrating diversity, fostering inclusion, and championing the rights of every individual to be their true selves. Pride is not just a celebration but a reminder of the resilience, courage, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals. It's about creating spaces where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 1. **Educate Ourselves**: Understanding the history and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community helps us become better allies. 2. **Support LGBTQ+ Voices**: Amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals and support their causes. 3. **Create Inclusive Workplaces**: Promote policies and practices that ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. 4. **Engage in Active Allyship**: Stand up against discrimination and advocate for equal rights. Let's use this month to commit to continuous learning and to support the LGBTQ+ community not just in June, but every day. Together, we can build a world where love and acceptance are the norm. Happy Pride Month! 🏳️🌈 #PrideMonth #LGBTQ #Inclusion #Diversity #Equality #LoveIsLove #Pride2024 #DYSON