As worldwide Pride celebrations are ramping up, anti-trans and LGBTQ+ sentiment has grown increasingly vocal.
Whether it's state legislatures, classrooms, or local Target stores, the controversy surrounding gender and sexuality has been growing -- and companies are starting to feel the heat.
V.F. Corporation (VFC) subsidiary North Face is the latest company to come under criticism for a promotional event co-hosted by environmental activist Wyn Wiley, better known as drag queen Pattie Gonia. Through Pattie, Wiley has led a charge to make outdoor spaces more accessible to diverse communities that may not always feel welcome.
DON'T MISS: Kevin O'Leary Calls Out Bud Light for Its Recent LGBTQ Controversy
View the original article to see embedded media.
Conservatives such as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., were quick to call for a boycott of the popular outdoor brand, telling followers that they "can save a fortune not wasting money on labels that are grooming our children."
North Face, however, appears proud to stand behind its choice of spokes-queen. In a comment under the ad, the company said "We recognize the opportunity our brand has to shape the future of the outdoors and we want that future to be a more accepting and loving place. We’re partnering with Pattie because we believe the outdoors are for everyone."
Wiley, through the painted lips of Pattie, also responded to critics of the promotional event. In her comment, she explains her mission "to diversify the outdoors and make trails a more welcoming space for everyone ... I don't expect you to understand what I do, but I do ask that you respect it -- just as I respect you."
Of course, not everyone is open to a dialogue. For those who may be inclined to dispose of their North Face gear, Pattie has a request. "If any homophobic people don’t want their North Face gear anymore, I’ll happily collect it and donate it to queer people."
