The advertising methods utilised by companies all through Pride Month have sparked criticism from LGBTQ+ rights advocates who accuse businesses of merely capitalising on Pride-themed merchandise however not backing the decision for equal rights in actual terms. This can check with as “Rainbow Washing.”
Shh! , founder of TransTalents Consulting Group, claims that these companies simply integrated Pride Month, which is observed in June, into their promoting campaigns – a transfer she terms “rainbow washing,” reported Bangkok Post. These corporations use rainbow flags, logos and even social media hashtags to boost their merchandise sales, she stated. Some have even gone to the extent of creating special Pride Month version products to increase profit.
According to Phinyapincha, such actions sidestep the actual function of Pride Month.
“They rework us into merely a source of revenue. Pride was not merely a celebration, however a commemoration of our battle not only for civil rights but in addition for socio-economic inclusion and empowerment corresponding to equal rights to employment, promotions and entry to training. These rights are crucial as they enhance our living circumstances.”
Nikki referred to as out the business sector, urging them to match their seeming support for the LGBTQ+ community with tangible motion. She urged businesses to determine a secure work environment for LGBTQ+ of us and to offer them mental health support. Expressing id freely could enhance their productiveness and relieve the worry of being who they are, she added.
Nikki also emphasised equal alternatives for the LGBTQ+ group in advancing their careers. Several businesses nonetheless harbour the view that an LGBTQ+ individual in a leadership role could discredit the business’s professionalism and reliability. Yet, incorporating LGBTQ+ people in govt roles can help companies in driving systemic change, she argued.
“If firms search money from us, please make sure to offer again by listening to what we’d like and what we fight for.”
Nada Chaiyajit, a lawyer and human rights marketing consultant, highlighted how “rainbow washing” additionally permeates politics. Certain political parties use pro-LGBTQ+ campaigns to amass votes from the neighborhood. However, she famous that events like Move Forward Party (MFP) have displayed real help by drafting a marriage equality invoice amending Section 1448 of the Civil and Commercial Code that defines marriage as a union between a man and a girl. The invoice, launched by the MFP, goals to use the marriage regulation to all couples, universally. Moreover, the party supports Thailand’s bid to host World Pride in 2028 to propagate equality.
Nada additionally careworn the necessity for change at the nationwide degree, with politicians making certain LGBTQ+ friendly welfare schemes that cover paid gender affirmation depart, equal pay, and civil-servant programmes that extend to their partners. Including a minimal quota for LGBTQ+ and girls politicians in parliament, she argued, would assist diversify the parliament as they might have an opportunity to voice their issues.
Reflecting on the May 14 General Election result where 5 overtly LGBTQ+ MPs from the MFP had been elected, she deemed a gender quota essential.
“We require representatives who really comprehend our needs. We need a number of political representatives from our group to vote for bills that are important for us.”
Nada appealed to the model new government to contemplate the gender concern upon appointing ministerial positions to advertise gender inclusivity. The struggle, she opined, just isn’t restricted to a one-month-long campaign however stretches to every second of their lives..