Pride Month 2023; TikTok launches it’s first ever ‘Visionary Voices’ list as Pride Month 2023 begins

It’s the first of June, and while the LGBTQIA+ community and PeopleWorld always celebrate Pride every month of the year, June in particular has a strong focus on the wonderful voices and visionaries that are part of the community. Fitting then that social media platform TikTok are launching their first ever “Visionary Voices” programme, curating some of the strongest names across the platform from the very community celebrated this month.

The “Visionary Voices'' list is TikTok’s celebration of “the history-making impact of our queer community,” with the platform recognizing 15 LGBTQIA+ creators and small business owners who are using TikTok “to educate, entertain and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.” The names involved are spread across three different categories; Creators, Small Owned Business and Industry Disruptors.

Alongside “Visionary Voices,” TikTok have also unveiled their “You Belong Here” campaign, which the platform have vowed is “more than a campaign—it's our commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community on TikTok.” This means that the platform will create a more inclusive environment for the community going forwards, taking a more hands-on approach in removing content and accounts that engage in “harassment, bullying, hate speech and hateful behaviour,” which includes mis gendering and dead naming (the act of calling someone by their birth name rather than their name they wish to be referred to as.)

“We also empower people to create the best TikTok experience for themselves by providing a range of safety features, such as confidential ways to report potentially violative content and accounts, comment filtering tools and privacy settings to choose who can engage with their content” the popular social media platform explained further regarding their “You Belong Here” campaign.

So who are some of the visionary voices that TikTok are highlighting throughout Pride Month 2023, and who should you start to follow on the platform this month and beyond? Peopleworld takes a look at the “Visionary Voices” list in full.

Who are the creators that TikTok are highlighting?

@hal.baddie (she/her)(New York, NY) 

Devin Halbal, a social media icon known by her username @hal.baddie, has gained popularity for her unique phrases like "Met Gala behaviour" and her ability to spread positivity through her engaging lifestyle content. On TikTok, Devin shares her travel adventures, daily mantras, and encourages other transgender women to embrace life's adventures and live authentically. Her vibrant personality and inspiring messages have made her a source of inspiration for many.

@jaegurley (they/them)(New York, NY) - 

Jae Gurley, a talented creator who goes by the username @jaegurley, has a Black fem nonbinary identity and utilises their gift of performance and storytelling to share their personal journey of self-discovery. Their TikTok account is filled with lifestyle videos that celebrate individuality and encourage others to embrace their unique identities. Through their content, Jae empowers viewers to live their most confident and Bougie B life, making a positive impact on their followers.

@mercurystardust (she/her)(Madison, WI)

Mercury Stardust, also known as Trans Handy Ma'am, is a professional home maintenance technician, performer, and award-winning activist. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, she has gained fame on TikTok under the username @mercurystardust. With over 2.3 million followers, Mercury uses her platform to share valuable DIY tips on home maintenance. Her unique brand and expertise in the home repair space have made her a recognized figure on the internet. Notably, she recently participated in a successful "TikTok-a-Thon" fundraiser, raising over $1 million for trans health care, showcasing her commitment to making a difference in the world.

@octopusslover8 (he/him)(Los Angeles, CA)

California based comedian and content creator Jake Shane, who goes by the username @octopusslover8, gained recognition for his light-hearted and comedic TikTok videos as well as his high-profile friendships such as Sofia Richie. He uses his platform to reimagine significant historical events through the eyes of Gen Z, offering a fresh and humorous perspective. Beyond his entertaining content, Jake also opens up about his personal struggles with severe OCD and anxiety, shedding light on mental health issues and sparking meaningful conversations. Through his candid sharing and relatable experiences, he brings comfort to others who may be going through similar challenges.

@thezletnis (she/her)(Toronto, Ontario)

Am and Noey are two queer sisters who go by the username @thezletnis on TikTok. Their content has captivated diverse audiences by focusing on self-expression, inclusive fashion, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Based in Toronto, Ontario, Am and Noey are passionate about fostering a community where authenticity is celebrated. They encourage everyone to embrace their true selves and celebrate the beauty of individuality. Through their TikTok videos, they have become powerful advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and have inspired many to express themselves freely and unapologetically.

Who else are TikTok highlighting?

Among the other participants involved in the other categories are Saucy Santana, an energetic artist with a strong following in the LGBTQIA+ community, and Baby Tate, a versatile musician known for her viral TikTok moments and empowering tracks. The campaign also features The Old Gays, a beloved group known for their entertaining dance trends and heartfelt videos that advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.

There is also Jonathan Kung, who uses his TikTok platform to promote cultural pride through cooking, and Andre Isaacs, an associate professor of chemistry who challenges norms in the STEM field while spreading inclusivity. Among the small-owned businesses involved is CTOAN Co, owned by Jodyann Morgan, celebrating diverse bodies and crafting gender-neutral candles with love and joy. 

Other participants include Eunice Straight Head, an Indigenous artist bringing representation to the media, David Yi of Good Light Cosmetics, promoting inclusivity in the beauty industry, and Jack and Bec, sisters creating art that uplifts marginalised communities.

Full list of TikTok’s Visionary Voices selection

• @hal.baddie
• @jaegurley
• @mercurystardust
• @octopusslover8
• @thezletnis

• @saucysantana
• @imbabytate
• @oldgays
• @jonkung
• @drdre4000

• @ctoan.co
• @n00nice
• @goodlight.world
• @jackandbec
• @verygaypaint