Trump’s attacks on DEI are complicating corporate sponsorship of Pride events

NPR’s Scott Simon talks to Andi Otto, the Executive Director of Twin Cities Pride, about the organization’s partnerships with corporations in the face of challenges to diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

Scott Simon mentions that World Pride is starting today, with global events taking place in Washington, D.C., followed by many LGBTQ Pride celebrations across America in June. He highlights how the ongoing efforts to scale back diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are affecting the relationships between event organizers and corporate sponsors. Andi Otto, from Twin Cities Pride, shares insights on their partnership with Target, a prominent company in Minneapolis. Despite Target’s decision to backtrack on DEI programs, Twin Cities Pride had to end their sponsorship.

Otto explains that even though they can agree to disagree with companies like Target, they had to make the tough decision to walk away from their sponsorship. He acknowledges the financial impact of losing Target’s $50,000 sponsorship but mentions that the community support helped offset the loss. Otto also talks about other companies like Deloitte that have chosen not to sponsor Pride events anymore due to their own decisions.

The conversation delves into the debate around the corporatization of Pride events and the balance between community support and financial reliance on corporations. Otto emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community that supports Pride events throughout the year. While the festival itself may not appear smaller, the impact will be felt in the funding for year-round programs like the rainbow wardrobe and rainbow feast, which provide essential support to the LGBTQ community.

In conclusion, Scott Simon thanks Andi Otto for the discussion, highlighting the challenges faced by Twin Cities Pride and similar organizations.