Converse has once again demonstrated its commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community with the launch of its 2024 “Proud to Be” collection. This marks the 10th annual Pride campaign for the iconic sneaker brand, which continues to support and empower LGBTQIA+ individuals through various initiatives and partnerships.
The Proud to Be collection is a statement of solidarity and empowerment. Since launching its Pride campaign in 2015, Converse has donated nearly $3 million to LGBTQIA+ organizations. These donations have supported organizations like the It Gets Better Project, which harnesses the power of the internet to build a supportive community for LGBTQIA+ youth.
The brand’s commitment goes beyond financial contributions. This year, Converse has partnered with several global organizations dedicated to LGBTQIA+ causes. These partnerships include the Ali Forney Center in New York, which provides shelter and support for homeless LGBTQIA+ youth, and the Boston Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth (BAGLY), which advocates for LGBTQIA+ youth programs. Other partners include Theater Offensive in Boston, COC Netherlands, Homotopia in Liverpool, IGLYO in Belgium, and Minus18 in Australia.
The 2024 “Proud to Be” collection draws inspiration from the trailblazing spirit of the queer community, featuring a Western-inspired aesthetic with vibrant colors. Converse’s LGBTQIA+ employees and allies played an integral role in the design of this collection, ensuring that it resonates with the values and spirit of the community.
Photographer Cully Wright captured the essence of this year’s campaign. Known for creating spaces that celebrate various queer experiences, Wright’s work focuses on the tenderness and peace of authentic love. “When we create a safe space to fully express who we are, we allow others to do the same. That’s the goal,” says Wright. His imagery for Converse highlights the power of standing proudly in your truth.
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The collection features unique designs such as the Run Star Utility Sandal CX with a colorway highlighting the transgender flag and a Chuck 70 with a platinum upper and harness-inspired detailing. Western embroidery, prismatic Chuck patches and neon rainbow outsoles add distinctive touches to the footwear lineup. The Chuck Taylor All Star styles are also customizable through the Converse By You experience, allowing customers to personalize their sneakers with laces, flags, stars, hearts, flames, trim and tongue patches.
Converse’s commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community is more than a marketing strategy; it’s a genuine effort to create positive change. By collaborating with creative voices like Big Freedia, Richie Shazam, Alexis Sablone and Munachi Osegbu in past campaigns, Converse shows its commitment to celebrating and amplifying diverse identities.
The 2024 “Proud to Be” collection is now available on converse.com.
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