‘bout to get the Bud Light treatment,' After Bud Light, Harry’s Razors faces boycott for working with a trans creator
Harry's Razors faces backlash for LGBTQ+ partnership with trans creator. Pride-centered promotion sparks debates on corporate activism and representation.
Harry’s, a prominent American brand known for men's grooming products, has found itself at the center of a heated debate after teaming up with trans man and digital creator Luke Wesley Pearson for a Pride-centered promotion. Pearson's Instagram reel unveiling the collaboration garnered both praise and criticism, igniting a debate about corporate activism and LGBTQ+ representation.
In a social media move that raised eyebrows, Pearson took to Instagram to announce his partnership with Harry’s Razors. The reel features Pearson showcasing the new Harry’s 2023 Face & Body Shave Set, designed in collaboration with LGBTQ+ advocate Ohni Lisle. The set includes razors for both facial and body grooming, with all profits pledged to benefit the Trevor Project, an organization supporting gender transitioning.
Conservatives backlash and calls for boycott
While Pearson's message of celebrating his first Pride with facial hair was met with support from the LGBTQ+ community, it also attracted a wave of backlash from conservative circles. Many critics accused Harry’s of being overly “woke” and aligning itself with a political agenda.
Social media platforms were flooded with posts and comments from individuals vowing to boycott Harry’s Razors due to its collaboration with Pearson and its support for the Trevor Project. Some expressed their discontent by canceling their subscriptions, with one user stating, “I have used Harry’s razors for over 5 years. No more. Subscription cancelled.”
Amid the turmoil, there were voices of support as well. Advocates of LGBTQ+ rights defended Harry’s decision to support the Trevor Project, emphasizing the organization's role in preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. One tweet read, "If you're going to boycott Harry's Razors because of their donations to the Trevor Project, you're outright saying you would prefer LGBTQ+ youths kill themselves than get help. There is no argument here."
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From Bud Light to Harry’s Razors: A trend of controversy
The backlash against Harry’s Razors is not an isolated incident. Earlier this year, beer brand Bud Light faced a boycott for collaborating with trans-TikTok influencer Dylan Mulvaney. The incident ignited conversations about the role of corporations in promoting social causes and the challenges they may face when navigating such contentious issues.
The Harry’s Razors controversy highlights the ongoing tension between corporate activism, inclusivity, and public opinion. As debates continue, the broader conversation about the responsibility of brands to reflect diverse identities and values remains at the forefront.