Rainbow flags are showing up everywhere for Pride Month, especially in business marketing.
Michael Cummings, president of Saint John Pride said he knows there’s some criticism around businesses using rainbow marketing during Pride Month, but he’s all for it.
“I think in some areas around the world and around the country, and by some people in the community it is seen as a business or an organization advertising or supporting Pride just for the marketing and just to reach this community,” he said.
“In Saint John and on Saint John Pride board and the community members here in Saint John that I know, we don’t see it that way, so we’re happy to accept the donations and the support.”
Cummings said without the corporate sponsors to bring attention to the Pride Festival, it wouldn’t be possible to make these events and the outreach happen.
“Not that many years ago, companies would not hire LGBTQ+ individuals or would actually fire them if they came out while working for the company,” he said.
Cummings said it’s a good thing when workers see their companies stepping up to support Pride and celebrate.
“To see the shift in organizations, to supporting pride and supporting our efforts in the community here in Saint John we welcome that,” he said.
Cummings said the marketing can only help bring attention to the movement and move it forward, as long as companies don’t put their logo or message over the flag.
He said allies of Pride can donate and use rainbow flags and colours.
“The truth is, they would not be marketing and publically supporting the LGBTQ+ community if they were not supportive and inclusive.”
Pride festivities are happening virtually this year, from July 10 to 18, in collaboration between Moncton, Saint John and Fredericton, via Pride NB.
