Araneta City amplifies message of inclusivity
The theme, ‘You matter, no matter,’ reminds the LGBTQ+ community that everything about their identities is important
Araneta City said that it is standing with the LGBTQ+ community and underscoring its commitment to promoting and fostering inclusivity. This was reinforced during the last LGBTQ+ Pride Month in June through a series of programs that aimed to empower members of the community.
The management of the commercial mixed-use development in Quezon City chose the theme “You Matter, No Matter” in recognition of the importance of telling members of the LGBTQ+ community that everything about their identities matters.
“We have always been proud supporters of the LGBTQIA+ community and we have always advocated for greater equality and inclusivity for them. They are always welcome here at Araneta City, a community that is more than honored to welcome them and ensure that the entire City of Firsts is a safe space for them. We want to tell them that whatever their gender identity, whatever pronoun they opt to use, or whatever their status is, they matter, their voices and presence matter,” said Marjorie Go, assistant vice president for Marketing of Araneta City, Inc.
Araneta City prepared several activities that aim to uplift and empower members of the LGBTQ+ community to be proud of who they are.
First, a special exhibit at the Gateway Mall Activity Area was mounted to educate the public about the relevance and power held by the chosen pronouns of queer people. The “Hi! What’s your Pronoun?” highlighted the various pronouns and neopronouns that members of the LGBTQ+ community use. From familiar terms like he, she, they or them, to newer, more gender neutral ones like xe, xyr, hir, and siya, the exhibit aimed to enlighten visitors on the importance of using the correct pronouns in addressing queer individuals. The exhibit ran from 26 to 30 June.
Next, Araneta City worked closely with LoveYourselfPH to conduct an intimate discussion about safe sex, the importance of self-acceptance, and self-love. Another relevant topic in this discussion was the tackling of various ways to fight the stigma against HIV. The talk happened at the Gateway Gallery on 26 June and was attended by Binibining Pilipinas International 2021 Hannah Arnold.
Aside from these, Araneta City splashed the colors of the rainbow all over the area with a variety of decorations that celebrate the wide spectrum of identities represented by the LGBTQ+ Pride flag. One key decoration is the Rainbow Arch located at the Gateway Mall Activity Area. People can pose and take pictures under the arch to help them show their pride to the world.
For people who posted their photos under the Rainbow Arch on social media, Araneta City had a special surprise for them. Some won an overnight stay for two at the Novotel Manila Araneta City by uploading their photos on Facebook or Instagram and using the hashtags #YouMatterNoMatter, #PrideAtAranetaCity, and #AranetaCity.
“Members of the LGBTQIA+ community are some of the bravest and most resilient people. They have withstood so much and yet they continue to show us that love, in all its forms, should be celebrated. That’s why we’re really committed to making the entire City of Firsts a place where they will feel loved, valued, and appreciated. We want them to know that they matter, and they belong here with us,” Go said.