Radisson Red V&A Waterfront is taking a bold step forward in the journey towards inclusion, joining hands with the vibrant and diverse LGBTQIA+ community to launch an epic Pride Month campaign.
Yesterday, the brand unveiled its stunning new rainbow-colored OUIBAR window, standing proudly in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ family.
“The new OUIBAR window not only conveys the signature cool of Radisson Red, but now shines with the brilliant hues of orange, yellow, green, indigo, and violet,” beams Leonie Andereya, Radisson Red’s charismatic curator.
“Though there are many different Pride Flags around the world, we settled on the 6-Color Pride Flag, designed by Gilbert Baker for the 1978 San Francisco Gay Freedom Celebration – an iconic symbol of hope and unity for the LGBTQIA+ community,” she explains.
The symbol is derived from the original 8-color Pride Flag in which each hue holds a special meaning: red is life, orange represents healing, yellow embodies the sun, green symbolizes nature, indigo stands for harmony, and violet, the soul.
40 years have gone by and still the fight for LGBTQIA+ equality rages on, especially throughout ongoing pandemic. In South Africa, we’ve witnessed the stark reality of marginalization in ways that test our collective consciousness to the limits, reinforcing the urgent need for inclusion, for each person to be accepted in their communities, and in society.
“At Radisson Red, we are devoted to creating a welcoming environment for individuals from all backgrounds. Our commitment to diversity and equality is reflected in all our policies and practices,” Leonie says.
Radisson Red has fostered a culture where guests and hosts are free to be their true authentic selves, where everyone is supported and empowered. We want to see everyone shine, and reach their full potential,” Leonie adds.
“Education and awareness are key to promoting inclusivity and breaking down the barriers of discrimination. That’s why we have brought together people from all walks of life, with a shared vision to educate and connect, breaking the stigma and celebrating Pride Month in style.”
“Today we had people from different walks of life at the Radisson, with a shared vision to educate and break the stigma around the LGBTQ community and most importantly connect and have fun.
“Building a better and stronger Africa is our collectively responsibility. Let’s join hands and play our part in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s time to act, shift mindsets, and create an inclusive future for all,” says Leonie.