It doesn’t matter what you play. Nobody wins alone. Nike Celebrates Pride with Inclusive BETRUE Collection 2020.
In celebration of Pride Month, Nike releases short film” Nobody Wins Alone” features Nike athletes and June is now devoted to what was, once upon a time, just a day at New York’s Stonewall Inn in 1969, whereby queer people (notably from black and brown and trans communities) defied expectations and resisted arrest during a raid facilitated by the NYPD.
The ensuing riots (along with other, less-reported campaigning prior to and following the Stonewall event) became a foundational cornerstone for the changes to the civil liberties experienced by those in the LGBTQ+ community today.
Choreographer and dancer Quinton Peron, also one of the first male cheerleaders to perform during the Super Bowl, encourages the youth to be allies for one another and to follow their dreams. “Don’t try to make other people comfortable,” says Quinton. “You weren’t put on this earth to abide by somebody else’s rules.”
Quinton Peron, One of the First Two Male Cheerleaders in the NFL
BeTrue
The power of team reminds us that we are stronger in numbers — that when we are united, we are unstoppable. For Pride Month and beyond, BeTrue honors athletes who uplift the LGBTQ+ community and use their voices for change.
Nike has unveiled the Air Force 1 that will be part of its “Be True” pack this year. The Nike “Be True” pack is the sportswear company’s offering of LGBTQ Pride-themed sneakers and apparel, all of which feature the 10-color LGBTQ rainbow flag. This year, the Air Force 1 stays true to its classic, triple white roots, while adding tasteful hits of the rainbow detailing on the tongue, midsole, and heel. The sneaker will be released on June 22 for $120 at Nike.
When Erica Bougard isn’t conquering the seven events of the heptathlon, she’s paving the way for LGBTQIA+ youth by living her truth. “I’m going to be myself no matter what and let people know,” says Erica, now a two-time national champion. “I let the track community know that this is me, this is who I am. This is who I’ve always been.”
Erica Bougard, Elite Heptathlete
One of the original founders of Pride, Ellen Broidy, crystallized this commodification of social justice in a comment to BBC Today, saying: “[Pride is] much more powerful without the floats and without Citibank and American Airlines. Yes, it’s a sign of progress but in a distinctly capitalist market.”
As a center back for the U.S. Women’s National Team and the Chicago Red Stars, Tierna Davidson believes that your team is your family. In her words, “Being part of a true Team means having trust and respect for each member’s authentic self.”
Tierna Davidson, U.S. National Team Defender
Capitalist agendas aside, it’s probably worth remembering that while “globally recognized brand” plus “rainbow graphic” might feel like the exploitation of an oppressed identity, the worldwide exposure of well-known companies aligning with LGBTQ causes has a trickle-down effect to normalize and promote tolerance, acceptance, and changing of societal attitudes. But it does not excuse or justify those who manipulate the real-life struggle of millions around the world to put money in their own pockets or nurture a brand image.
As a swimmer at Harvard University, Schuyler Bailar made history as the first openly transgender athlete to compete for a Division I men’s team. “Being a trans athlete is about my passion for sport,” says Schuyler, whose activism extends from the pool to over 200+ public speeches, to date. “It’s about not letting anything hold me back: not other people, not injuries, not rules and definitely not my identity.”
Schuyler Bailar, 1st Transgender NCAA D1 Men’s Athlete
So how do we navigate this distinctly capitalist market? With knowledge.
Here, we look at some of the more worthwhile Pride collections with information on exactly where your dollar is going and what they will do with it. Corporate transparency is one of our favorite trends for SS20.
BeTrue Collection 2020
March into the future in your Nike Air Max 2090 BETRUE, a bold new look inspired by the iconic Air Max 90. Celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community, the airy upper features translucent fabric to reveal a vibrant array of Pride colors beneath. Its asymmetrical design, decorative stitching and see-through TPU heel clip add an edgy, modernized look while super soft Nike Air cushions your journey.
Show your radiance in the Nike Air Force 1 BETRUE, the street icon that puts a fresh spin on what you love best: crisp leather, bold colors and the perfect amount of flash to make you shine.
This may look like your parent’s Deschutz, but a lot has happened since the greatest water sandal ever built first dropped in 1992. Modern improvements like a sticky rubber outsole, a cushy heel strap, and quick-dry materials in the upper create a new standard in all-day functionality, while padded anchors set the bar for ankle stability in open-toed sandals. And just like the OG, the Air unit in the heel adds cushioning that you’ll appreciate with every step. Don’t let the haters stop you from working your sock game to match this Vivid Purple colorway.
As a goalkeeper for the U.S. Women’s National Team and the Portland Thorns, Adrianna “A.D.” Franch is a backbone for her teammates. “Teams should always allow individuals to shine in their strengths and be supported, regardless of their weaknesses,” says Adrianna, who advocates for self-love, fearlessness and equal rights — on and off the field. “That’s what brings us together and moves us forward.”
AD Franch, U.S. National Team Goalkeeper
Dancer Napoleon Jinnies made history as one of the first male cheerleaders to perform during the Super Bowl. “We are all here to express our shared passion,” says Napoleon, who sees Pride Month as an opportunity to educate the youth. “If you don’t have your teammates’ backs, then you’re not all in.”
Napoleon Jinnies, One of the First Two Male Cheerleaders in the NFL
The Nike Sportswear BETRUE T-Shirt delivers the soft comfort you love with a colorful graphic celebrating Pride.
The Nike Bandit Rise BETRUE Sunglasses take performance and style to new heights with a distinctive modern look and innovative features. An eye-catching, ultra-light design with built-in ventilation keeps things cool, clear and comfortable when you’re on the move.
Rep your pride down to your toes in the Nike SNKR Socks. Made with textile yarns, they stretch for a snug fit and are cushioned in the toe and heel for extra comfort. Colorful details celebrate Pride.
The Nike Heritage Bag is a durable fabric with multiple zippered compartments. The adjustable strap allows you to change the fit without having to stop your stride. A colorful graphic pays homage to pride.
I love this collection. I got me some goodies from this.