Publications focused on LGBTQ+ and diverse audiences are reportedly experiencing a decline in advertising as brands retreat in response to recent political backlash against diversity and inclusion initiatives. Editors from LGBTQ+ and minority-focused publications have described this as a form of discrimination, stating that past enthusiasm from advertisers has waned.
Tag Warner, CEO of Gay Times, highlighted a dramatic decrease in advertising revenue, noting an 80% drop in the past year and a loss exceeding £5 million in expected revenue. He suggested that this shift is linked to a growing anti-diversity drive in the U.S. that has altered brands’ willingness to engage with LGBTQ+ audiences. Warner remarked on the disproportionate impact this has had on organizations addressing diverse themes compared to others.
Nafisa Bakkar, co-founder of Amaliah, a publication for Muslim women, noted a noticeable change among brands that previously rushed to promote diversity and inclusion. She pointed out that U.S. brands often prioritize “brand safety,” which can imply a reluctance to engage with potentially contentious themes. Ibrahim Kamara, founder of the youth platform GUAP, remarked that the enthusiasm for supporting diverse audiences has notably decreased since 2020.
Some organizations, while acknowledging the economic pressures affecting all advertisers, indicated that the focus on diversity is now less favorable for business. Darren Styles, managing director of Stream Publishing, which publishes Attitude magazine, noted that while brands are cautious, some remain committed to supporting LGBTQ+ content. Warner and others expressed concerns over the broader political climate, including the impact of figures like Donald Trump and conservative campaigns against DEI efforts.
In contrast, certain publications less reliant on U.S. advertising have reported success in navigating this political landscape. Mark Berryhill, CEO of equalpride, acknowledged that while caution among brands is evident, it may help reinforce the importance of supporting LGBTQ journalism as a sound business decision.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/aug/31/lgbtq-media-advertising-editors