Dr. Martens have been worn by activists, campaigners and community since the Christopher Street Liberation Day March to commemorate the Stonewall Riots to the first Dyke Pride march through to the Mardi Gras celebrations. Generations of wearers have used DM’s classic designs for a multitude of reasons from their practical aesthetic, a method of queer coding and signalling or even a rite of passage. DM’s to this day continues to be a symbol of rebellion and defiance. Not just a pair of boors but a part of queer culture, identity and history.
Dr. Martens Westfield opening. 2018
This year Dr. Martens continues to give back to a community that has championed and supported the brand for decades. As well as supporting LGBTQIA+ charities across the globe Dr. Martens is donating to Black Rainbow in Australia. An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, Sistergirl and Brotherboy non-profit organisation fully owned and operated by Indigenous people. Originally focused on suicide prevention their remit has expanded to include, but not limited by, homelessness, escaping domestic violence, support with the justice system, mental health and living with HIV.
To celebrate Pride this March, we are inviting two guests from the LGBTQIA+ community to join us live in the Westfield Sydney Dr. Martens store to discuss the topics of Pride, Protest, Creativity and Nightlife. This talk between Black Rainbow spokesperson Jake Gablonski and Sydney Drag Queen Maxi Shield, will open the dialogue around these topics, amplifying the messages, stories, emotions, and knowledge that they have to share. You can tune into the live talk on Instagram at @drmartensaustralia, or join us in the Sydney store 4th March, 6pm.
Dr. Martens; proud now, proud then, proud always.
About Dr. Martens:
The first pair of Dr. Martens boots rolled off the production line on the 1st April 1960. With its trademark yellow stitch, grooved sole and heel-loop, it was a boot for workers, initially worn by postmen and policemen; comfortable, durable and lightweight in comparison to its competitors at the time. Throughout Dr. Martens history, the brand has been adopted and subverted by diverse individuals, musicians, youth cultures and tribes.
These are the people who stand out from the crowd and their journey of self-expression has always been accompanied by a pair of DM’s. The simple silhouette allows people to customise each pair; whilst on a utilitarian level their famous durability and comfort make them ideal footwear for the world of gigs and street fashion. On an emotional level, they are a flag of attitude and empowerment. The Northamptonshire factory where it all began still exists to this day, in the village of Wollaston. A specific range of ‘Made In England’ products are manufactured here by a small, close-knit team of people schooled in traditional shoe-making and a process that hasn’t changed since our first pair six decades ago.