As we celebrate Pride Month this June, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we, as designers, can communicate inclusivity through visual design. Creating welcoming and inclusive designs isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about sending a message that everyone is valued and respected. Here’s how you can achieve that in your work.

Understanding Inclusivity in Design

Inclusivity in design means creating visuals that speak to diverse audiences, regardless of their gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or ability. It’s about making sure that everyone feels seen and represented. This doesn’t just apply to LGBTQIA+ individuals during Pride Month but to all marginalized communities throughout the year.

Key Principles of Inclusive Design

• Representation Matters: Include diverse imagery and symbols. Use visuals that represent various identities, such as different gender expressions, body types, ethnicities, and abilities. Stock photos and illustrations are great tools for this, but always aim for authenticity over tokenism.
• Color and Symbolism: Utilize colors and symbols thoughtfully. The rainbow flag is iconic for LGBTQIA+ pride, but don’t stop there. Incorporate colors from other flags, like the transgender flag (light blue, pink, and white) or the bisexual flag (pink, purple, and blue). Symbols like the interlocking female and male symbols or the progress pride flag can also be meaningful additions.
• Language Inclusivity: Choose your words carefully. Use inclusive language that respects and acknowledges different identities. Avoid assumptions about gender roles or relationships in your copy. Pronouns, titles, and terms should be inclusive and respectful.
• Accessibility: Design with accessibility in mind. This means considering how people with different abilities will interact with your designs. Use high-contrast colors, readable fonts, and ensure your designs work well with screen readers. Accessibility ensures that everyone can experience your designs fully.
• Inclusivity in Action: Highlight real stories and experiences. Incorporate testimonials or stories from members of different communities to provide genuine representation. This could be through social media posts, website features, or campaigns that showcase diverse voices.

Practical Tips for Designing Inclusively

• Use Diverse Icons and Illustrations: When designing, opt for icon sets and illustrations that represent a variety of people. Resources like The Noun Project offer diverse icons that can help make your designs more inclusive.
• Design for All Bodies: Show body diversity in your visuals. Represent different body sizes, shapes, and abilities to create designs that resonate with more people.
• Create Welcoming Spaces: Use design elements that signify a safe and welcoming space for everyone. This could be through inclusive signage, digital banners, or social media graphics that communicate support for LGBTQIA+ rights and other marginalized groups.
• Avoid Stereotypes: Steer clear of clichés and stereotypes. Instead of relying on traditional symbols or color schemes, try to innovate with fresh and respectful representations.
• Feedback is Key: Engage with the communities you’re representing. Seek feedback to ensure your designs are hitting the mark and truly resonate with those you aim to support. This can be done through surveys, focus groups, or one-on-one interviews.

Case Studies in Inclusive Design

• Slack’s Diverse Emoji Set: Slack introduced a range of emojis that reflect different skin tones, gender identities, and sexual orientations. This move has been applauded for its effort to make communication more inclusive and representative.
• Microsoft’s Inclusive Design Toolkit: Microsoft offers a toolkit that provides guidelines on how to design inclusively. It includes personas and scenarios that help designers consider various perspectives and needs.
• Salesforce’s Inclusive Design Commitment: Salesforce integrates inclusive design principles into its products and workplace culture. The company’s “Equality by Design” initiative ensures that their software, marketing, and corporate practices reflect diversity and foster an environment of belonging. Salesforce’s platform allows users to customize pronouns and gender identities, making it a pioneer in inclusive technology solutions.

Final Thoughts

As we celebrate Pride Month, let’s remember that inclusivity isn’t a trend but a commitment. At Tandem Studios, we believe in the power of design to shape a more inclusive and welcoming world. By incorporating these principles into your visual designs, you’re not just creating beautiful visuals; you’re contributing to a culture of acceptance and belonging.

If you’re looking to elevate your brand or design projects with inclusive design concepts, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation with us to discuss how we can create designs that resonate with your audience on a deeper level.