Converse drops trans-inclusive Pride line, intention splits LGBT community
With Pride month rapidly approaching, brands everywhere are beginning to introduce LGBTQ-related products. However, Converse just took a big step in a new direction with their just-revealed Pride collection.
In addition to creating shoes that sport the LGBTQ rainbow, the shoe company also launched a series of models designed after the transgender flag.
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According to Mashable, the trans-specific shoes retail for $80. However, buyers can also customize the other LGBTQ shoes to add trans flair.
Additionally, the footwear company launched a series of pride shoes for children, so little ones can also visibly support the LGBTQ community. You can check out the full line here.
Check out what folks had to say about the latest launch below.
My new #trans #pride sneakers customized from @Converse. #LGBT pic.twitter.com/cFmk2qHYZo
— Cai Copley (@_caicopley) April 19, 2019
Brb obsessing over the bee #PRIDE @Converse shoes ??️?
*screams in gay* #PRIDE2019 pic.twitter.com/50ILsYXfhO— clint for spring, groundbreaking. (@dclintf) April 19, 2019
CONVERSE HAS A NEW PRIDE COLLECTION THAT INCLUDES TRANS PRIDE SNEAKERS FOR THE FIRST TIME!!!!!!!!
SHOP HERE: https://t.co/afn0Gc9nwy (affiliate link) pic.twitter.com/TptVcjY87E
— Alysse Dalessandro? (@readytostare) April 19, 2019
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However, while the general reception of the line has been positive, some people have pointed out that the line fails to donate any proceeds to actual LGBTQ causes. Additionally, many also suggest the brand’s move is performative in the name of making a profit.
literally, the only pair of shoes i own is @Converse and it makes me sad they are doing a pride collection and not even donating a shred of the proceeds to an lgbtq org? they’re just keeping ALL the money for themselves when every org out there, especially small ones, struggle? pic.twitter.com/sJ8HNyYSoo
— Calvin (@calvinstowell) April 19, 2019
i know my entire timeline wants the pride converse but let me just pipe up and say “fuck rainbow capitalism”
— Amber & The Ongoing Matters?️ (@amberagemusic) April 20, 2019
So @Converse just released these for Pride 2019, and holy shit I love them, but they’re $80 and no mention of an LGBT charity initiative which feels….kind of exploitative and gross? Hopefully there is one, and I’m just not seeing it? pic.twitter.com/7tM4ogqkpE
— Angelina Panozzo (@AngelinaPanozzo) April 19, 2019
What do you think of Converse’s Pride line? Let us know in the comments below.
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