𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗨𝗠𝗡: "Clowns during Pride Month" by Abigail Job F. Alla

 Published by: Alfred Luis Armando

Time published: 10:33

Date published: June 9, 2023

Acceptance is something we can give to someone, and it can change their lives. This also goes by honoring them wholeheartedly. But this acceptance and being honored can be wasted if everything is just put up for a show—capitalism striving through Pride Month.

The pride month is just around the corner as we enter the month of June. Based on Library of Congress, the first pride march was held in New York City last June 28, 1970. They all shout the same thing it is for equal rights. Up to this present day, annually every month of June, the LGBTQ+ Community celebrates and commemorates their existence and strength, and they still shout the same thing—equal rights for all.

As different generations passed by, the LGBTQ+ Community is being accepted by society—as it should be. But in some countries, like the Philippines, they do not recognize same-sex unions, even if it is marriage or civil unions. Yet, many businesses jump right into the surface of the rainbow of the LGBTQ+ during this time of the year, Pride Month.

Capitalism has a say about this. We have this thing called "Rainbow Capitalism" or "Pink Capitalism," wherein different companies claim their support for the LGBTQ+. But in another way around, they just put merchandise for profit and to capitalize on the current event. Everything is just for profit and their own interests.

Adding a rainbow flag to its logo, creating pride-themed items, and more actions of corporations that ends up benefiting from Pride Month and erasing the true essence of the celebration. Protesting for their equal rights and freedom is one of the main agendas every commemoration. The main objective of the celebration is being outcasted by the hidden agendas of different companies.

Showing support to the community must be true and genuine, not because you are waiting to benefit from it. People who are part of the LGBTQ+ already suffer some injustices and discrimination from the society. Adding to their burden by showing fake support will not help. Businesses that just hop on the pink world when it’s Pride Month should not be supported.

References:

https://www.lgbtqandall.com/what-is-rainbow-capitalism.../

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LGBT_rights_in_the_Philippines

https://www.loc.gov/lgbt-pride-month/about/