Earlier this week Converse announced that they partnered up with the drag queen Desmond is Amazing for a campaign advertising their new pride sneakers.
Within hours conservative commentators were calling for a boycott of the brand. Some even urged their audience to call Child Protective Services and ask them to investigate Desmond’s parents for child abuse.
“The conservative media is up in arms about Desmond being featured in Converse’s new Pride campaign,” Desmond’s mother said. “They are suggesting that Converse promotes pedophilia.”
The family was investigated by CPS for several months earlier this year because people kept reporting Desmond’s parents every time he made a public appearance. The CPS reports found no abuse or maltreatment.
Meanwhile Desmond said that he is proud to be part of the campaign. “He is spreading the message that it is okay for kids to explore their identity and express themselves, without shame, without hiding.” his mother added.