RENEE PARSONS PRIDE BLOG…
When Bob and I first sat down to discuss creating our own foundation 9 years ago, we started with the big questions. What is our mission? What communities and causes would we like to support? How can we make the greatest impact? These questions, although daunting, were stimulating. It excited us both to think about the possibilities we could pursue and the lives we would hopefully change.
As we were asking ourselves these questions, one fundamental goal was a constant: championing inclusivity. Making people feel seen, heard, and accepted — both on and off the golf course — has been the common, binding thread through all our work with PXG and The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. Every person, whether they are teeing off on the golf course, or walking down the street, deserves to feel whole, equal, and welcome.
In writing this, and as I reflect, it is my responsibility to recognize my privilege. How with the privileges I inherently have, I find it my responsibility to do everything within my means to advocate for those who cannot safely do so. This responsibility has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my life.
The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has worked to support overlooked communities. Our commitment to supporting all communities extends to the organizations we partner with, ensuring they too are striving toward unequivocal standards for inclusivity. We aim to bring into the light those who historically have been left in the shadows. One of these communities, which Bob and I both have loving connections with, is our LGBTQ+ family, friends, and colleagues.
As we enter into Pride month I feel thrilled, empowered, and deeply moved by the progress we have made to further the rights of queer people. That with COVID receding, we may begin to celebrate in person our important triumphs. Recognizing the queer community’s hard work and accomplishments is not only gratifying; it’s important, too.
But beyond the excitement and pride, I feel a sense of caution. A caution that while we have made tremendous strides towards LGBTQ+ equality, we cannot become complacent. Settling for “good enough” is simply not an option. Continuing our work with the same fervor is necessary to accomplish the change we all wish to see and the change we deserve to have.
In this spirit of pushing forward and continuing our quest for inclusivity, I am proud to introduce PXG’s first-ever Pride hats. We are celebrating Pride this June, bolder and fiercer than ever. Bob and I are immensely proud of these designs, and of our entire PXG family who brought them to life with such care, love, and passion. I am equally pleased to make these items staple pieces in our year-long collection, because Pride is not limited to the 30 days of June. It is a 365-day-a-year mindset.
Throughout the years, we’ve partnered with institutions such as GLSEN and one n ten, among others. Along with the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDs we helped create The Parsons Center for Health and Wellness in Phoenix, Arizona, which has organically grown into a home for many LGBTQ+ groups. Our partners work closely within the Phoenix community to host assorted outreach and support events. One of my personal favorites, one n ten’s annual Camp OUTdoors, is an annual summer camp for LGBTQ+ youth. Kids from around the country are able to come together and be their most authentic selves.
As a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community, I find myself continually moved and inspired by my queer friends, family, and colleagues. I cannot wait to celebrate Pride month with each of you!
ABOUT PXG
PXG is a global research and development powerhouse dedicated to creating the world’s finest golf equipment and sport fashion designs. Under the direction of founder and CEO, Bob Parsons, along with President and Executive Creative Director of Apparel, Renee Parsons, PXG embodies the belief that every new product – from golf clubs to apparel – should be noticeably better. Every innovation should improve your game. And every moment of impact should be exhilarating.
