There’s no better way to kick off Pride Month and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, than by sharing some of the beautiful voices that grace our industry. Listen in as our superstar pros talk about the importance of living a life of freedom and authenticity; and honoring those we love….
Talking Pride with Joico Technical Director, Brandon Corbitt
How I celebrate…
“I celebrate all year long by having a declared safe-space chair at the salon; attending local and world drag events that support artists; educating my clients about who I am and how I grew up; preaching acceptance; and living my authentic self. Providing that safe space is important to me, as I have a lot of LGBTQIA+ clients, especially teens.”
Organizations I champion…
“The Born This Way Foundation gives a platform to those who were bullied, are having a hard time coming out, feel they are alone, [dealing with] suicide and self-harm, and is the most amazing foundation to help LGBTQIA+ individuals. I donate, but I also support and educate myself and keep up with their events. Building a future that empowers youth to be their authentic self but also become brave is extremely important.”
Advice from Brandon…
“Don’t celebrate Pride only in June.”
“Talk to those who are different and make them feel part of this world.”
Just because someone is different in their attire, their preferences, the way they present themselves, act, their mannerisms, or lifestyle doesn’t make them less than… it makes them greater! ”
“Pride is not about rainbows, parties, or drinking. It’s about accepting those who are different than you. Let’s celebrate being human.”
Talking Pride with Joico Artistic Educator, Brandy Shelton
How I celebrate…
“To me, celebrating Pride is the decision I make every day to live my true, authentic life. Many of us grew up in a time where being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community put you in harm’s way, or you were immediately removed from your family/job/home. So for us, showing up as ourselves is celebrating our Pride in the truest form!”
Organizations I champion…
“Hands-down, my favorite organization within the LGBTQIA+ community is the Trevor Project. They provide suicide prevention and crisis intervention help for LGBTQIA+ youth, [who are] disproportionately at risk of substance abuse or attempted suicide. We also experience highest rates of homelessness and mental-health crises. This organization does an excellent job providing services to those individuals.”
Advice from Brandy…
“Just show up! I encourage anyone who’s never been to a local Pride event to find one this month and check it out. Everyone is always welcome and you’re guaranteed a good time!
Now, more than ever, we need to see the love and support from our allies and local communities. The LGBTQIA+ community has been under attack with a series of hate-based laws passing throughout the country. We need people to stand side-by-side with us and show everyone that hate will not be tolerated.”
Talking Pride with Joico Master Artist, Kyle Miller
How I celebrate…
“I celebrate pride by attending local pride events and by supporting LGBTQIA+ businesses.”
Organizations I champion…
“Matthew 25 AIDS Services. They are there to help support, guide, and educate those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.”
Advice from Kyle…
“One of the most important pieces of advice is to educate yourself. Take the time to learn about the history of Pride, the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQA+ community, and the different identities within it. This knowledge will not only deepen your understanding but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations and advocate more effectively.”
Talking Pride with Joico Brand Educator, Ailynn Tiernan…
How I celebrate…
“I celebrate pride by celebrating love is love all year long! Every June 1st, I change my salon’s logo (Secret Grotto Salon) to our rainbow-colored version. I also like to upload the vivids I have done over the years in the order of a rainbow, so my grid is extra colorful for the month of June. And, lastly, I go to as many Pride parades as I can throughout the month!”
Organizations I champion…
“The Human Rights Campaign is the first organization I really started to follow to help me feel more supported in the community, and keep me informed of news and milestones that are happening globally. It has helped me build comfort in knowing that change is happening, and progression is happening. I’m grateful to be living in this time.”
Advice from Ailynn…
“Support comes in all different ways. For the allies, keep being Y-O-U – you put the A into LGBTQIA.”
“Support us by respecting that love is love!”
“Create a safe space to just love freely without judgement. It’s the people you surround yourself with that creates a vibe, and can determine if a place is welcoming and friendly. Allies and supporting community members are so special because of these reasons.”
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