Nike sets example for its brands with Pride Month collection

By

Cassidy Mantor

Published
May 30, 2017

Nike continues to speak to its consumer on the topic of social equality, this time also leading the way for a Converse collection just in time for Pride Month.

Nike has launched its fifth annual Be True collection proudly showing its support for the LGBTQ community. This year's Be True collection focuses on inclusion on and off the field and follows up Nike's Equality campaign from last February.

In its fifth year, the 2017 Be True collection includes four footwear styles for men and women, a muscle tank, two graphic tee styles and running socks. Robert Goman, LBGT Network Leader at Nike said, “Sporting your rainbow in the gym or on a run became a way to feel like you belonged to something larger – you were connected to being ‘out’ or being an ally."

Be True started in 2012 as a grassroots campaign founded by core Nike employees using Nike's customization platform NikeID to create rainbow themed product in time for meaningful events in their communities. Since launching in 2012, Nike has provided over $2.5 million in financial and in kind support to LGBTQ causes through Be True product sales.

In addition to the annual Be True collection, Nike's wholly owned brand Converse is following in Nike's footsteps by launching its new 2017 Pride Collection. Like Nike, Converse's product showcases a limited edition assortment of rainbow themed All Stars with pride-themed patches and footbeds. In a similar manner, Converse will donate proceeds from the Pride Collection to organizations that support positive outcomes for members of the LGBTQ community.

The 2017 Nike Be True collection launches June 1 online and globally in select retail locations, with a US retail launch starting June 5.

Converse's Pride Collection is now available online through Nike's site. It includes children's and toddler footwear as well as classic unisex adult styles.