"It's about embracing the things that make you unique, even if it makes others uncomfortable."

Musician, actor, and activist Janelle Monáe joined Cheddar on Monday to talk about an ad campaign she's working on with Belvedere Vodka that emphasizes inclusion and diversity.

"We have a shared vision about making this world much better. Inclusion is at the top of my list. Inclusion for women, minorities, and my brothers and sisters in the LGBTQIA+ communities," said Monáe.

The venture, which began last year, is called "A Beautiful Future," and involves a coordinated limited edition bottle, a social media campaign, and a video series led by female directors.

The bottle is available beginning this month.

"It's the whole idea that inclusiveness is really the mainstream now," said Rodney Williams, the president and CEO of the vodka brand.

The campaign began at a 2018 brunch co-hosted by Monáe and Belvedere. The event was in support of Monáe's Fem the Future movement, which aims to encourage those who identify as women working in the media, cinema, and arts fields.

"It's really to highlight women's voices, and to say — hey — we're noticing that there is a gender gap. And there's not a lot of women who are behind the cameras. I'm in front of them, where are the producers? Where are the engineers? Where are we?" said Monáe.

"We're here. And we can compete at a high level, but we have to be given those opportunities."

Share:
More In Business
Housing Market Reports Are Here: April Insights and Economic Impact
April's release of the monthly Housing Starts and Building Permits reports by the Census Bureau provides crucial insights into the construction activity in the housing market. These reports are an economic indicator, shedding light on the current state of the housing market and its broader economic impact.
Why The GOP Wants To Stop The Cellular Agricultural Revolution
Author of 'Clean Meat,' Paul Shapiro joins Cheddar to discuss how the cellular agricultural revolution helps lower rates of foodborne illness and greatly improves environmental sustainability. Plus, how his company The Better Meat Co. is bringing healthier food options to the table.
Load More