Silence is not an option

Freedom by OG Cubbie

The past few days since the US election results have been overwhelming. Like many of you, I've been watching, reading, and, most importantly, listening.

While social media has been filled with statements of solidarity, I held back from immediately adding Cubbie & Co.'s voice to the conversation. Not because I don't care—quite the opposite. I wanted to take the time to listen and reflect. Too often, expressions of solidarity can seem more about brand management than genuine concern.

I wanted to hear first from those directly affected: the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals, women, people of colour and those with disabilities who have been sharing their fears, anger, and determination. Their words, images, and videos have expressed what many of us feel—a profound sense of vulnerability and uncertainty.

Though Cubbie & Co. is based in the UK, what happens in America matters deeply. History has taught us that social and political changes rarely remain on the other side of the Atlantic.

Whether you agree with American politics or politicians, America represents something bigger than itself—it embodies the idea of liberty, freedom, and the right to self-determination. These principles transcend nations.

The ability for people to live freely and decide their own future is fundamental to liberation everywhere. It's what the LGBTQ+ community has fought for decade after decade. Yet, for many, these principles feel increasingly distant, more aspirational than a lived reality.

Our community knows that rights can be granted and taken away. We've learned to read the signs and understand the potential threats certain actions and words can bring. When we hear echoes of past prejudices in the present day, when we see familiar patterns of marginalisation emerge, we know what might follow.

Our history has taught us that silence precedes erasure, and erasure precedes worse things still. So we stand with our brothers and sisters—not as a business, but as members of the LGBTQ+ community who understand what's at stake. We stand with you because we must. Our shared history demands nothing less.

This is about everyone, everywhere, who believes in the fundamental right to live authentically and freely. It's about standing together, supporting each other, and refusing to let hard-won rights slip away. Today, as in decades past, our voices speak truth to power.