Why The Beauty Industry Should Take Action

Even though Trans and Gender Non-Conforming people are dealing with an unprecedented and coordinated attack, few companies have spoken out in support of Trans rights. While many may support Trans people in public, they are afraid about potential backlash for being vocal in supporting Trans issues.

The time has come to be vocal. Not only is the Transgender community in danger, but also the future of our democracy. Trans and Gender Non-Conforming people have always been an integral part of the beauty industry. And it’s time for beauty brands to show up in support.

During Pride Month LGBTQ communities are often only recognized as customers and consumers, not human beings under attack. Rightfully so, companies have been accused of rainbow-washing, making their logos rainbow during Pride month but not substantially investing in LGBTQ issues and communities. In order to build long-term trust and account for historic wrongs, it’s important for beauty industries to meaningfully show up and support Trans and Gender Non-Conforming communities.

We show up because we acknowledge the long and documented history of Trans and Gender Non-Conforming innovation in the beauty industry.

In an inhospitable society and workplace environment, historically Trans and Gender Non-Conforming people have sought refuge in beauty and fashion industries. These have been some of the only sectors where Trans and Gender Non-Conforming people can express their gender without as much risk of discrimination and harm. Accordingly, Trans and Gender Non-Conforming people have been the heart of innovation in beauty and fashion industries creating some of the most marketable beauty trends today. However, so often Trans and Gender Non-Conforming people’s aesthetics and innovations make it into the mainstream, not their bodies. Trans and Gender Non-Conforming people have historically been the mood boards, never the models. It is telling that behind some of the most successful cisgender stars in the industry is a Trans and Gender Non-Conforming beauty squad.

We show up because we celebrate the Trans and Gender Non-Conforming people our companies employ today.

We show up because we believe that diversity is beautiful.