International Vodka brand Absolut is continuing its 40+ year allyship to the LGBTQ+ community with Out & Open, a continuing initiative to ensure the future of safe spaces.
Professor of Sociology at Oberlin College and Conservatory, Greggor Mattson, believes that the plight of these safe spaces has declined by 15.2% between 2019-Spring 2021. These figures, of course, come on the heels of a 14.4% decline between 2017-2019.
Recognising that these joyful spaces are more than just a place to enjoy cocktails, Absolut is focused on highlighting the importance of protecting the future of LGBTQ+ bars and restaurants.
Working with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), Absolut is launching an audio-visual series that highlights stories from community members inside the walls of LGBTQ+ bars.
“The queer community stands to lose everything if these spaces continue to close. I think that they provide us with one of the only safe places to truly gather together safely, without the fear of other people’s judgment, or action against us,” said one of the interview participants, Joel who is a queer minister. Other guest in the series include actor and comedian Bowen Yang.
For every listen to an Absolut Out & Open story between April 25, 2022 through June 30, 2022, Absolut will increase its $175,000 donation to the NGLCC by an additional $1 to fund succession planning education and training, up to a maximum of $200,000.
To listen to the series and find more information, go to absolut.com