fluent360

Shoutout to our Copy Editor, Gisela! 💫 She’s got over two decades of experience as a journalist, editor, and translator, keeping her finger on the pulse of culture. Gisela regularly contributes to La Voz, the Spanish-language section of the Chicago Sun-Times, covering everything from local entertainment to art. We see you, G! 🫶 #truemulticultural #TeamSpotlight

As part of Team DDB, we’re proud to spotlight our new work celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month for the U.S. Army. In this social media series, Soldiers shared their unique journeys and what drives them to follow their dreams. View the entire series on @goarmy. #truemulticultural

Thrilled to share that our very own CEO has been named one of Crain’s Chicago 2024 Notable Black Leaders and Executives! This prestigious recognition celebrates Black trailblazers who are driving equity and justice across the Chicago area—and in Danielle’s case, far beyond. Congrats to Danielle and all the other trailblazers making a difference! #CrainsNotable2024 #BlackLeaders

Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Caleb Wilkerson, our amazing Summer 2024 intern. Thank you, Caleb, for all your hard work and enthusiasm. We’re lucky to have you! 🙌   P.S. Did everyone see the Town Hall recap our Gen-Z intern did for us yesterday?  👀   #NationalInternDay #InternSpotlight #TrueMulticultural

Our Summer Town Hall recap was edited by our intern - how did he do?

We took some time to commune, play, and connect as a team, as well as, reflect and plan for the future. Hope you all enjoyed your holiday as much as we did. #Juneteenth #TrueMulticultural

From its rich history to its massive cultural impact, the Black and Latine ballroom scene embodies creativity, resilience, and community. Whether you’re new to the floor or a devoted fan, here are five facts to deepen your appreciation for this incredible culture: 1. Origins in Harlem: The ballroom scene began in the 1920s in Harlem, New York, forged by the Black and Latine communities as a response to racism enduring in integrated drag/pageant scenes of the time. It served as a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ people of color, offering a space to express themselves through dance, fashion, and performance.   2. Chosen Families: At the heart of ballroom culture are the “houses,” which act as chosen families for their members. Named after fashion icons or notable figures, these houses provide support, mentorship, and a sense of belonging, led by “mothers” and “fathers.” Often, houses were a refuge for those kicked out of their homes by their families for their LGBTQ+ identity, and these youth maintained their stay by battling it out at balls on behalf of their house and house parent.   3. Voguing: This iconic dance style, known for its dramatic poses and fluid movements, mimics fashion magazine poses set to House music. While it thrived in Harlem, Voguing gained mainstream fame with Madonna’s 1990 hit “Vogue” and continues to evolve today.   4. Ballroom Categories: Competitions, or balls, feature diverse categories like “Realness,” “Face,” “Runway,” “Bizarre,” and “Performance.” These categories showcase participants’ creativity and originality, and historically, they helped members practice performative qualities of the heterosexual and cisgender world around them as a means for survival in a society hostile to LGBTQ+ identities and expressions. 5. Cultural Impact: The ballroom scene has profoundly influenced mainstream culture, particularly in fashion, music, and dance. Shows like “Pose,” “Legendary,” and documentaries like “Paris Is Burning” have shone a spotlight on the ballroom community, celebrating its history, struggles, strength, and contributions. Let’s celebrate the incredible legacy and enduring influence of Black and Latine ballroom culture. 🖤✨

Chicago showcases multiculturalism at its best, especially during Pride. Supporting queer-owned businesses in Pride Month celebrates their unique offerings and amplifies the cruciality of diverse, inclusive establishments. Here are our must-see go-tos in the city 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️: 1. 1308 Chicago | Goose Island   This stylish, Black-owned bar and event space is known for its eclectic atmosphere, craft cocktails, and events that cater to diverse communities. It’s dedicated to fostering community through curated events that often highlight LGBTQ+ culture.   2. Lips Chicago | South Loop    Lips Chicago offers a dazzling drag dining experience with talented performers, glitzy decor, and a fun atmosphere. It’s a vibrant space celebrating drag culture and LGBTQ+ entertainment.   3. Taylor’s Tacos | Little Italy    Founded by Taylor and Maya Mason, this culinary gem began as Taco Tuesdays among friends and grew into a celebrated taco shop. Renowned for its award-winning vibrant flavors and community spirit, Taylor’s Tacos is a queer Black-owned business that embodies culinary excellence and pride.   4. Taylored Chicago | Little Italy    Also founded by Taylor and Maya Mason, Taylored is a chic event space designed to bring people together in style. With a community-centric vibe, much like Taylor’s Tacos ethos, it’s the perfect backdrop for unforgettable events    5. Semicolon Bookstore & Gallery | West Town    Founded by Danielle Mullen, this Black woman-owned bookstore and gallery is a community hub spotlighting literature and art. It passionately uplifts Black and queer voices, offering a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere for creativity and culture.    Happy Pride from fluent360! 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ #pridemonth #pridechicago #lovewins #pride2024

Finish the Lyric - Black Music Month Edition

By integrating Negro League Baseball stats into their own, Major League Baseball has officially crowned Josh Gibson as the new MLB All-Time Leader in batting average, on-base plus slugging, and slugging percentage.  This move finally recognizes the greats of the past who should have been part of the conversation all along.

fluent360 is proud to present @goarmy’s Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month social campaign: My Future is Now. We led the strategy and creative as part of Team DDB to produce an entire series of Soldiers celebrating their time in the U.S. Army. To see more of the content, head to the GoArmy channels. #ClientWork

Proud to support the Chicago Ad Federation’s 2024 Ad Woman of the Year Inductee! 🎉 #AdWoman2024 #ChicagoAdFederation