This Pride Month, we're creating space for reflection - led by community voices.
Across Dr. Martens stores in the UK and Europe, members of the Dr. Martens community have been sharing their thoughts on questions about identity, allyship and the future we want to build together.
At the Dr. Martens Foundation, we wanted to bring some of our charity partners into that conversation too. Working alongside LGBTQIA+ communities in different parts of the world, these organisations create spaces for connection, belonging, visibility and support every day.
We invited three of our partners to reflect on a question inspired by the conversations taking place across our stores. Their responses offer different perspectives, but all speak to the power of community and the importance of creating a world where everyone can be themselves.
Here’s what they shared.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self that meaningful change takes time, and progress is rarely linear. There will be moments of momentum and moments that feel slow, but both are part of creating lasting impact.
I’d also remind myself to stay patient, celebrate small steps forward, and remember that long-term change is built through consistency, collaboration, and care.” – Outright International
Outright International works to advance human rights, dignity and equality for LGBTQIA+ people around the world. Through advocacy, research and partnerships with grassroots activists and organisations, they help challenge discrimination and strengthen LGBTQIA+ movements across different countries and communities.
Their work spans emergency support, policy change and long-term movement building - helping ensure LGBTQIA+ people are empowered to be themselves, wherever they are in the world.
What is one thing you love about the queer community?
It can feel scary and isolating at first to try to find community amongst other LGBTQ+ people. We have lots of conversations at the London LGBTQ+ Community Centre with folks who are looking for support services or to make queer friends.
While it can feel daunting to seek out advice or take the first steps to finding your chosen family, there will always be someone who remembers what that part of their own journey was like and will welcome you with open arms.” –London LGBTQ+ Community Centre
The London LGBTQ+ Community Centre is a sober, intersectional community centre and cafe created for and by LGBTQ+ people based in the heart of London.
From crafting sessions to exercises classes to mental health support - through their holistic and collaborative approach, the centre provides a space for community events and services that help the LGBTQ+ community build connections, feel seen and find support.
Photograph by Megan Teo.
What world do you want for the next generation of queer youth?
We want a world where queer youth can simply be young - to dream, make mistakes, and grow, without carrying the weight of fear, rejection, or isolation.
A world where they don’t have to hide who they are, and where being themselves is not something they have to fight for, but something that can be part of everyday life.” – Dding Dong
Dding Dong stands with LGBTIQ youth across South Korea who often have no where else to turn, providing a range of services supporting their physical wellbeing, mental well being and to live independent lives.
Combining crisis support services, social events and advocacy work, not only does Dding Dong’s centre provide a space where LGBTIQ youth can rest, rejuvenate and connect but they’re also dedicated to creating more environments where people feel more empowered to be themselves.
Whether it's creating safer spaces, standing alongside one another as allies, or imagining a brighter future for the next generation, change begins with people and communities coming together.
We're proud to support partners who are helping make that future possible every day, and grateful to them for sharing their reflections with us this Pride Month.
