The past decade has seen political polarisation – accelerated by social media’s filter bubbles and echo chambers – deepen and mutate. An ominous era of a polycrisis has shattered any remaining societal consensus. Meanwhile, powerful anti-establishment voices have stepped into the void.

Black Joy Disco is an alcohol-free Black LGBTQ+ safe space that aims to enable healing through the power of community, music, and movement. As prejudice against the LGBTQ+ community continues to grow, spaces like these are increasingly important for providing support, nurturing, and joy.

In response to backlash, online bookstore Allstora has reversed its decision to continue to stock anti-LGBTQ content despite its commitment to uplifting marginalized voices. As polarization deepens, audiences are becoming more assertive about their expectations of brands in doing their part.

Every Pride month, social media feeds explode with branded Pride campaigns and rainbows suddenly adorn the products on our shelves. But which campaigns are actually resonating with audiences? And how can brands ensure that their support for LGBTQ+ communities makes a difference?

Pride events are multiplying in numbers across the UK, with more specific events and gatherings catering to subsections of the LGBTQIA+ community. What’s behind the rise of these decentralised events? And how can brands connect with hyper-local queer communities authentically?