
The Daily Show Exposes the Hypocrisy of Corporate Pride Month
Corporations and Pride Month: A Balancing Act of Profit and Allyship June 2nd, 2025, marked another Pride Month, a period when LGBTQ+ rights and visibility are celebrated globally. However, this year's celebrations were marked by a renewed discussion about the role of corporations in Pride Month. The Daily Show's Trevor Noah brought this discussion to the forefront with a recent video highlighting the often-superficial nature of corporate Pride initiatives. Noah's video uses humor to critique companies that appear to prioritize profit over genuine allyship. He uses the example of Burger King's "Pride Whopper," a burger with two bottom buns, suggesting a lack of depth in their approach. Similarly, he points to Skittles' release of colorless candies, questioning the company's motives. "Does Oreo really need to wish us a Happy Pride Month?" Noah asks, highlighting the cynicism surrounding such gestures. However, the video also showcases a heartwarming advertisement featuring a family embracing their LGBTQ+ member. This juxtaposition emphasizes the emotional contrast between corporate performative allyship and the genuine acceptance and love within families. The video ends with Noah's poignant message: "It's not about the paint; it's about genuine acceptance." The video has sparked a conversation about the responsibility of corporations during Pride Month, prompting a reflection on the balance between commercial interests and meaningful allyship. It serves as a reminder that true acceptance goes beyond marketing campaigns and requires a deeper commitment to inclusivity and equality.