In a world where representation matters more than ever, Volkswagen took a bold step by including a fleeting yet significant moment of LGBTQ+ visibility in their Super Bowl commercial. The ad, which spanned the evolution of the company’s vehicles from 1949 to the present, featured a scene where lesbian newlyweds joyfully depart their wedding, enter their car labeled “Just Married,” and share a kiss. This depiction, however minute, became a focal point of contention.
Backlash from Conservative Quarters
One Million Moms (OMM), a conservative Christian group known for its anti-LGBTQ+ stance, led the charge against Volkswagen. They accused the automobile giant of attempting to “normalize sin” and alienate conservative customers with their inclusive advertising. In their view, the ad’s representation of a lesbian couple undermined cultural morals, the sanctity of marriage, and the concept of family. Their outrage was encapsulated in a petition that has amassed over 13,000 signatures, demanding the ad’s removal.
The Irony of Selective Outrage
Interestingly, the outcry overlooked other elements of the advertisement that could be deemed controversial, such as children dressed as Darth Vader, a character associated with violence and tyranny in the Star Wars saga. This selective outrage highlights a larger issue of societal biases, particularly against the LGBTQ+ community.
Volkswagen’s decision to stand firm against the backlash is a testament to their commitment to diversity and inclusion. This controversy emerges amid a broader trend of companies facing boycotts and criticism for embracing LGBTQ+ inclusivity in their marketing efforts. Such instances underscore the ongoing challenges and resistance faced by the LGBTQ+ community, even in seemingly progressive spaces.