Starring a real-life couple, the film is part of a year-long #ProudParent initiative to empower and inspire parents, families, and allies to come out in loud, public support of their loved ones.
In celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month this October, Oreo has partnered with PFLAG National to release the most heartwarming film on the importance of family love, support, and affirmation. Titled Proud Parent, the touching project highlights the crucial role parents play in fostering acceptance in the LGBTQ+ community and reminds viewers that "a loving world starts with a loving home." Starring a real-life couple, the film is part of a year-long #ProudParent initiative to empower and inspire parents, families, and allies to come out in loud, public support of their loved ones.
"The film shows the love between Jen and Amy, exploring parent-child relationships and the challenges of bringing a partner home for the first time – especially for the LGBTQ+ community," states Oreo, which has long been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. "Having a supportive, affirming family—and committed allies—is crucial for the health and wellbeing of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) people. We are grateful for our partnership with OREO, and for OREO's commitment to our shared vision of a diverse and inclusive world, made better by loving, proud parents and allies," Brian K Bond, executive director of PFLAG National — the first and largest organization for LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies — said in a statement.
According to AdAge, created out of the New York City-based digital agency 360i, Proud Parent follows the tale of a young woman named Jen who goes home to introduce her family to her girlfriend Amy. Although her mother greets Amy with open arms, Jen senses reticence from her father even as he welcomes her sister's husband without any inhibitions. However, he eventually gets over his qualms as he witnesses the real affection Jen and Amy have for each other and extends an olive branch in the form of a heartwarming surprise for the couple.
Oreo and 360i reportedly worked to ensure diversity in every aspect of the production and this becomes evident in the team that worked on the project. While the actors playing Jen and Amy are a real-life couple, Cole Webley directed the film out of Sanctuary, and transgender cinematographer Bianca Cline served as DP. "Many members of the LGBTQ+ community were involved throughout every aspect of the film (script, production crew, talent, music composition, editing) which allowed us to, together, create a story that was truly authentic, relatable and inspiring," Justin Parnell, Senior Director, OREO brand at Mondelēz International, told Forbes.
"It’s widely known that family support and acceptance are critical to the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially young, Gen-Z members of the LGBTQ+ community. OREO feels that by supporting and uplifting LGBTQ+ and ally voices, and connecting the experiences of proud parents and allies across the country, we can help contribute to the development of a community where LGBTQ+ individuals can thrive," he added. "While the film highlights the importance of LGBTQ+ acceptance in an emotional, relatable way, this October we are also debuting first-of-their-kind limited-edition cookies to inspire and reward acts of allyship for the LGBTQ+ community."
"We’re excited to release the Limited-Edition #ProudParent OREO Rainbow Cookies, something our fans have been requesting for years. Each pack features seven different colored creme fillings inspired by the colors of the Pride flag. Only 10,000 packs will be available to fans via giveaway starting October 9th. To participate in the program, we are encouraging fans to share a photo of what allyship means to them on social," Parnell revealed. This initiative has already seen an incredible response on social media. Here are some of our favorites:
#ProudParent k, took pic off Fb using phone. Lmao because I'm geek.
— Firecloud (@DoingOkinTx) October 9, 2020
Nough abt me.
What matters is love, understanding and acceptance.
Hubby, me, oldest son. pic.twitter.com/ZySQvRC7y1
my mom and dad are both #ProudParent AF!
— LAINEY | ACAB 🏳️⚧️ (@knucklevelvet) October 9, 2020
they’ve supported me so so much through my transition and i’m so lucky to have them 💞 #Giveaway #Oreo pic.twitter.com/VyM5MQsvc3
We ensure they feel that they are in a supportive environment while they stay with us. These pictures represent our support for them and the entire LGBTQ+ community. The children were unable to attend any Pride Day festivities, so we made sure to have a Pride Day for them!
— Sarah (@_SarahLee_23) October 9, 2020
Having been raised Mormon, being a #ProudParent means turning our whole belief system upside down in order to be advocates and allies for our pan son and bi daughter, despite severing relationships with family and friends. Couldn't be prouder ♥️🧡💛💚💙💜🤎🖤 pic.twitter.com/qlMNPZeITi
— 🌈formerly homophobic mom❤️ (@glovekelly) October 9, 2020
For more information on ProudParent, click here.