Brewing Equity: The Beer Companies Championing LGBTQ Rights
The brewing industry has been a male-dominated culture for centuries, but recently, a wave of change has swept through it. A number of beer companies are leading the way in championing LGBTQ rights and promoting gender diversity. This article explores the companies that have been instrumental in changing the traditional brewing culture and the initiatives they have taken to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment.
Brewing and LGBTQ Culture
The brewing industry has long been associated with masculinity, with brewing being seen as a man’s job. However, the advent of craft brewing has led to a wave of change, with more women now involved in the industry. But beyond gender diversity, the industry is also becoming inclusive of LGBTQ individuals.
Several beer companies are leading the way in promoting diversity and inclusivity. They have taken measurable steps to recognize diversity within their staff, consumers, and even in their marketing. Below are the organizations making a difference in the brewing culture:
Stonewall Inn IPA by Brooklyn Brewery
Brooklyn Brewery is one of the most recognized breweries in America, and they took it one step further by creating the Stonewall Inn IPA. Brooklyn Brewery partnered with Stonewall Inn – a New York City landmark and the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ movement – to make this beer, which they describe as “a beer for Stonewall, a beer for celebration, a beer for coming together.”
From every purchase of this beer, Brooklyn Brewery donates money to the Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative (SIGBI), a non-profit organization that supports grassroots LGBTQ organizations across the country. The Stonewall Inn IPA remains one of the most popular beers for Brooklyn Brewery and a testament to their commitment to LGBTQ rights.
PRIDE by Two Roads Brewing Company
Two Roads Brewing Company is a Connecticut-based brewery that is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion, both within their staff and in the society. Two Roads understands the importance of equality for all and its PRIDE beer demonstrates that commitment.
PRIDE is a special beer brewed by Two Roads each year but only sold during LGBTQ Pride month in June. The beer is a hazy, juicy IPA, made with El Dorado and Cascade hops. A portion of all profits from the sale of this limited edition beer is then donated to True Colors United, an organization dedicated to assisting LGBTQ homeless youth.
Pride Blueberry Ale by Alaskan Brewing Company
Alaskan Brewing Company has always been committed to sustainability, but they also strongly believe in supporting LGBTQ rights. Alaskan Brewing Company teamed up with Alaskan LGBT Community Center to create a special blueberry ale, stamped with the LGBTQ-friendly logo.
For every purchase of this beer, a portion of the revenue goes to the Alaskan LGBT Community Center. The Pride Blueberry Ale is a testament to the Alaskan Brewing Company’s commitment to creating a safe space for everyone in the community and providing the support needed to promote equality.
FAQs
Q: What does LGBTQ mean?
A: LGBTQ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer or Questioning.
Q: Why is the brewing industry promoting LGBTQ rights?
A: The brewing industry is promoting LGBTQ rights because recognizing diversity and inclusivity can increase the market for a product or brand while helping to create a more equal society.
Q: How can I support these initiatives?
A: You can support these initiatives by purchasing the beers mentioned in this article or donating directly to the organizations that they support.
Conclusion
The brewing industry is changing, and it’s heartening to see breweries take positive steps to be more inclusive, both in their workplaces and their products. Raising awareness on LGBTQ issues and social justice is essential and requires support from everyone. Making beer with this purpose in mind is one way to generate attention from a broader audience.
For the brewing industry, improving diversity and inclusivity can provide growth opportunities and even increase profits. Nevertheless, beyond these benefits, promoting equality can create a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone. As the industry moves forward, more beer companies like Brooklyn Brewery, Two Roads Brewing Company, and Alaskan Brewing Company, championing for social justice and equity, will be at the forefront and leading the way.