June has been known as Pride Month in the U.S. and Canada since 1999. Chosen to commemorate the Stonewall riots of 1969, when people were protesting for gay liberation, the month-long event now sees celebrations across the continent to observe LGBTQ pride.
This year, Pride Month is marred with challenges, however, relating to the political landscape. Many brands are shying away from offering and/or promoting Pride tech to avoid being considered too political. According to CNN, several big brands in the U.S. are scaling back their Pride merchandise and promotions this year due to worries about “provoking right-wing customers and activists” and attracting the attention of federal agencies purportedly investigating companies with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
Nonetheless, individuals who observe have come out in full force to spread messages of positivity, inclusivity, and acceptance. And some tech brands continue to participate, even if they are quieter about it this year than they have been in the past. You’ll find things like special edition Pride gear featuring Pride colours, even curated LGBTQ content from the top streamers.
We have highlighted some great Pride tech previously , from phone cases to smartwatch bands, headphones, and themed video streaming content. This year, there are even more Pride goodies to consider if this movement is important to you.
Casetify Pride Collection Phone Cases
Casetify, known for its customizable and bold style phone cases, is back with another Pride collection this year. These cases feature quirky designs, like a MagSafe Impact case emblazoned with the words “Queers Do It Better” in a wave formation. You’ll also find more subtle options, like an orange case that reads “Let Equality Grow.” Ideally, you can create your own Casetify case with a chosen LGBTQ messaging in the colour and type you want and order it online. Get one for about US$70.
Sennheiser Momentum 4 Pride Edition Headphones
Sennheiser showed its support last year with the introduction of the Pride Edition of its popular Momentum 4 Wireless headphones. Available for $500 but on sale now for $300, the headphones include the anthemic rainbow badging with similar accents on the included case. Beyond the finish, they are identical in every way to other Momentum 4 Wireless headphones, offering all the same features like ANC with Transparent Mode, 60-hour battery life, wind noise suppression, and more.
Apple Watch Sport Loop
Apple always has a line of Pride bands for the Apple Watch, and this year, there’s a Pride Edition of its popular Sport Loop for the Apple Watch, which comes in two sizes and now features the Pride script woven into the strap. Alongside the strap, there’s also a matching animated Pride watch face that you can download to display on the screen throughout the month (or beyond). The watch look is $59
Skullcandy Dime Evo True Wireless Earbuds
One of the finish options available for the Skullcandy Dime Evo true wireless earbuds is the limited edition “All Love” colour, a clear homage to Pride with its distinct rainbow design. The $100 buds, which currently show as being out of stock, employ a unique cylindrical-like, cigarette lighter shape whereby the case can be clipped to your keychain, backpack, purse, even jeans, so you never lose it. Inside are the buds, which can run for up to 38 hours, eight hours per charge. They’re sweat- and water-resistant, boast a noise isolating fit with Stay-Aware mode, and support multi-point pairing.
Jansport SuperBreak Plus Affirmations Backpack
The Jansport line of backpacks is a popular one among students, accommodating tech like a laptop or Chromebook, tablet, phone, headphones, and more for travels to and from and at school. The SuperBreak Plus backpack (US$42) comes in many styles and colours, one of which is called Affirmations. This backpack is littered with handwritten positive phrases throughout its exterior to help lift spirits. Many of the images and words are inspired by LGBTQ themes, including drawings of rainbows throughout and inspirational words like “be you” and “never lie to yourself.” The backpack is wonderful not just for Pride but for promoting positive mental health for all. Along with a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit an up to 15-inch computer, the backpack has a pocket for a water bottle, organizer compartment inside for school essentials, and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort.
Netflix Pride Content
Like most other streamers, Netflix has curated a selection of content for celebrating Pride month, making it easy to find and browse in one place via the home menu. Within the Celebrate Pride Month section are various shows and movies that feature LGBTQ+ stories or prominent LGBTQ characters. Among these are popular shows like Orange is the New Black, Schitt’s Creek, Never Have I Ever, Sex Education, and Grace & Frankie. You’ll also find content highlighted with LGBTQ directors, like The Emoji Movie and Good Will Hunting, along with GLAAD Award nominees like Superstore and Grey’s Anatomy.
Pride Month might not be as prominently promoted this year as it has been in the past. But that hasn’t stopped individuals and some brands from showing their support for inclusivity and acceptance.
-30-
Check out our contest section for a chance to win awesome tech prizes!
