Microsoft Leads With Design + Technology to Celebrate Pride Through Radical Joy

In the face of adversity, the ability to move forward and spark change within the LGBTQIA+ community is something to celebrate. Microsoft is no stranger to advocating for LGBTQIA+ people; they’ve been doing it since 1989, when they added sexual orientation to their non-discrimination policies. The brand has been a strong ally and advocate ever since. This Pride, Microsoft shares their commitments, releases new products, and strives to make meaningful contributions to the LGBTQIA+ movement globally. Some of the brand’s LGBTQIA+ members are also sharing their stories, encouraging everyone to create more equality worldwide.

The 2024 Pride campaign is an ode to “Radical Joy,” the kind that radiates and inspires. The joy that is within us, when expressed, can help create change for all and inspire others to do the same. Radical Joy is an anthem for those who thrive against all odds and an invitation for everyone to step up for LGBTQIA+ rights globally.

Microsoft is driving attention to intersectionality and unity by featuring various LGBTQIA+ flags in their Pride designs. These represent different sexual and romantic orientations and gender identities through vibrant abstract shapes that nod to the joy and power within LGBTQIA+ communities.

Pride can’t be owned by a corporation. For the third year in a row, Microsoft is open-sourcing the entirety of their campaign designs on Figma and GitHub. They’re inviting everyone to use, remix, and re-make these graphics to further spread Radical Joy and Pride around the world. This year’s release features over 20 new flags in 33 languages.

Microsoft is also introducing Pride themes that are all here to stay year-round in Outlook and Microsoft 365 apps, new themes in Microsoft Edge, Microsoft Teams backgrounds, Windows wallpapers, and an Xbox Pride controller, among others. And for the first time, Pride is available in Microsoft’s AI-powered tools, like Microsoft Designer and Clipchamp, so you can share your support further with stickers, presentations, videos, and more.

Explore radical joy and read all about Microsoft’s Pride efforts here at microsoft.com.

Kelly Beall is Director of Branded Content at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based writer and designer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, from Fashion Plates to MoMA and far beyond. When not searching out the visual arts, she's likely sharing her favorite finds with others. Kelly can also be found tracking down new music, teaching herself to play the ukulele, or on the couch with her three pets – Bebe, Rainey, and Remy. Find her @designcrush on social.

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