As people grow more aware of social justice issues, there’s greater pressure on brands to meaningfully champion diversity, equity, and inclusion to stay in step with consumers. Dr. Martens’ track record of authentic campaigning and cross-pollination with LGBTQ+ communities is meeting these demands.

From children’s cartoons to period dramas, queer storylines are featuring more prominently in mainstream film and TV – challenging long-held assumptions of heternormativity across culture. What is the next frontier when it comes to accurate and nuanced portrayals of LGBTQIA+ identities on screen?

Political polarization in the US is fueling heated debates and widespread outrage around censorship – whether that's in the form of deplatforming or book bans. But who is being most deeply impacted by such restrictions? And what can brands do to navigate tensions around free speech and self-expression?

As the LGBTQ+ community demands more nuanced forms of on-screen representation, the media landscape is evolving to allow for diverse content that better represents modern audiences. Through its relatable and lighthearted format, Heartstopper is reframing the queer teen experience for many Gen Zers.