Free People was founded on the values and principles of inclusivity and cultural understanding. Every day we strive to be better, to better serve our customer and, in turn, build a better community.\Discriminatory behavior in all its forms has no place at Free People. We stand with the Black community and believe Black Lives Matter.\Today, we focus on how we can make impactful changes that address our commitment to the Black community with the following actions:\
- Hire an external third-party to conduct a comprehensive review of our store practices. We have a zero-tolerance policy regarding discrimination or racial profiling in any form.\
- Form an internal, cross-functional Diversity & Inclusivity Committee to develop an actionable strategy in partnership with our Executive team — including shared services — and outside consultants.
- Conduct mandatory diversity and inclusion training for all store employees. We are planning to have this training completed by July 30. In addition, all Home Office teams will participate in similar training. Expand our recruiting efforts at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
- Increase representation of Black models, influencers and brand partners.
- Sponsor a full four-year scholarship for a young Black student pursuing studies in fashion design. We hope the first scholarship can be awarded to an individual for the upcoming academic year. As a global fashion retailer, we embrace our duty and unique position to empower the next generation of aspiring Black artists, designers and creators.
- Help rebuild and grow businesses in Black communities.
- Donate $100,000 to the United Negro College Fund, as well as employ a 3:1 employee donation match to this charity or the following charities:
- The Innocence Project
- Antiracist Research and Policy Center
- Equal Justice Initiative
- Year Up