From the editor
Look up the meaning of the word “cosmopolitan” and you will find a myriad of definitions – all, ultimately, describing the same sentiment. Something free of prejudice; something that embraces people, ideas and stories from all walks of life; something that is proudly multicultural; something that is for everyone.
Our brand is built on this promise, and diversity and inclusivity are at the heart of what we do. Whatever your skin colour, whatever your body shape, size or ability, whatever your gender identity or sexual orientation, whatever your background… you are valued, you are seen, and you are most certainly welcome here.
Despite our efforts to ensure that this comes across in the content we create, we recognise that we can always do better. We realise that our brand has been part of the problem and we are determined to be a part of the solution, in a real, tangible way.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve worked to build extensive guidelines and commitments that ensure we are held accountable.
This action plan includes:
• Ensuring we maintain a high level of diversity on our covers. Since the start of 2019, 20% of our covers have had Black representation and overall 30% have featured Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic talent. We promise to make this a priority and to regularly audit our progress.
• Making sure any available roles are advertised as inclusively as possible, and that people from all backgrounds feel encouraged to apply. Where there are no full-time roles open, we will continue to create other opportunities for those who may not otherwise have access to them. These include our Scholarship scheme, Home, Made initiative, an upcoming mentoring programme (look out for the details in our October issue) and more. • We have updated our “How to write for Cosmopolitan” guide on our website to help ensure everyone has a fair and equal chance of working with us. We are dedicated to using our brand to elevate the voices and stories of underrepresented communities, and welcome pitches from anyone with a great story to tell. Is that you? Visit Cosmopolitan.com/uk/writeforus. • As well as writers, we’ll ensure the images we use, along with the photographers, models and other contributors we work with, reflect the diverse world we live in.
Acceptance, kindness and understanding are what makes Cosmopolitan, and you, so beautiful. We hope you will support us in our mission to create an increasingly inclusive brand, making whatever positive change we can in this world around us.