Viral first videos have taken over the Internet. It started when a ‘First Kiss’ video was released by the clothing company ‘Wren’ that featured 20 strangers kissing. It inspired countless spoofs, parodies and now social experiments. This most recent “first” video, ‘First Gay Hug’ shows 15 homophobic people hugging 15 gay strangers.
The Gay Women Channel on YouTube captured the interactions and the outcomes are truly inspiring. In the beginning, most individuals are uncomfortable and awkward, but as the video progresses, they open up to each other and everyone embraces one another.
One straight woman starts off by telling her matched stranger that being gay is “freaky” and makes the sign of the cross. By the end, she is in warm embrace and they don’t see one another as being so different after all.
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Viral First Videos
- There is an opportunity to create social experiments that bring together individuals from opposing viewpoints to showcase compassion and understanding.
- LGBTQ+ Representation
- There is potential for businesses to highlight stories and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals through creative and authentic content.
- Parody Culture
- Parodies can be used to bring attention to important social issues and start conversations around change.
Sectors Adopting This
- Fashion and Apparel
- There could be an opportunity for fashion brands to feature LGBTQ+ individuals and diverse identities in their advertising campaigns and marketing materials.
- Film and Entertainment
- The film and entertainment industry can create more authentic and diverse representation of LGBTQ+ individuals to combat stereotypes and promote acceptance.
- Advertising and Marketing
- Advertising and marketing industries may find opportunities in creating effective messaging campaigns to support diversity and inclusivity.
