Unifying Voices: Equalpride's Bold Expansion in LGBTQ+ Media

A New Chapter for Them: Joining the Equalpride Family

Condé Nast's Them, a digital media brand dedicated to LGBTQ+ culture, politics, and identity, has officially found a new home with Equalpride. This acquisition was confirmed by Equalpride on a recent Friday. The move is designed to broaden Equalpride's existing portfolio, which includes well-known queer brands such as Out, The Advocate, and Pride.com. The company expressed its intent to solidify its standing as a leading and impactful platform for LGBTQ+ news, entertainment, culture, and fostering community connections.

Challenges Amidst Growth: Equalpride's Recent Restructuring

However, this news follows closely on the heels of significant staff reductions at Equalpride. Just a week prior, a number of employees from its key publications, including The Advocate's editor-in-chief Alex Cooper and Pride.com's editor-in-chief Rachel Shatto, were let go. This restructuring highlights the challenging economic climate faced by media organizations, even as Equalpride moves to expand its market presence.

Them's Enduring Influence and Editorial Leadership

Under the guidance of editor-in-chief Fran Tirado, a former Netflix staffer, Them has established itself as a vibrant digital hub for LGBTQ+ content. Based in New York City, the platform resonates strongly with younger generations, particularly Gen Z and millennial audiences, boasting a significant online presence with over a million followers on Instagram. The editorial team at Them comprises a diverse group of talented individuals, including executive editor Ludwig Hurtado, managing editor Samantha Allen, and a robust team dedicated to various aspects of content creation, from lifestyle to video programming.

Strategic Vision: Mark Berryhill on the Power of Unity

Equalpride CEO Mark Berryhill articulated the company's vision behind the acquisition, stating that Equalpride's core mission is to amplify and safeguard LGBTQ+ narratives. He emphasized that by integrating Them into their network, they are forging a cohesive ecosystem that promises to deliver greater impact for their audiences, advertisers, and community partners. Berryhill believes that incorporating Them's brand will accelerate their mission to champion LGBTQ+ voices throughout the year.

Building the Foremost LGBTQ+ Media Network

Berryhill further elaborated on the strategic importance of the acquisition, describing it as "scale with purpose." He underscored the ambition to construct the world's most trusted and expansive LGBTQ+ media network, one that respects its historical roots while simultaneously innovating for the future. This move signals a strong commitment to enhancing the reach and influence of LGBTQ+ media globally.

Them's Unique Position within Condé Nast's Diverse Portfolio

Before its acquisition, Them held a distinct position within Condé Nast's extensive array of publications. It was the sole LGBTQ-focused title alongside iconic brands such as Vogue, Vanity Fair, and The New Yorker. In recent times, Them has actively developed new content initiatives, including a weekly column and newsletter titled "Feral," spearheaded by Tirado, and a video series called "Privacy Please!"

Navigating Industry Headwinds and Upholding Values

The media industry has been grappling with considerable challenges in recent years, a situation further complicated for brands serving niche audiences. Berryhill acknowledged these difficulties in a memo to staff, citing economic concerns and the impact of reduced marketing spending, alongside cultural opposition to LGBTQ+ content and efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Despite these headwinds, he stressed the imperative to continue amplifying queer voices and fighting for inclusion amidst ongoing human rights challenges.