While most of us are battling sand in unfortunate places or melting in city heat, Zac and Dylan Efron are living their best lives on a lakeside getaway that’s basically a Pinterest board of “Summer Goals.” And yes, the shirts were left at home.
On July 1, Zac Efron, 37, made waves (literally) on Instagram by dropping a carousel of lakeside pics that instantly reminded the world why he’s still a gay heartthrob. No caption, no explanation, just vibes. The post opened with the “High School Musical” alum shirtless behind the wheel of a boat like some kind of nautical dream, followed by a shot of him wakesurfing like a pro.
Another snap showed Zac strolling solo with only a towel wrapped around his waist, casually looking like an Abercrombie ad. The post ended with an adorable sunset video of him and his younger brother, Dylan, trading cowboy hats while floating on the boat.
Dylan Efron’s POV: Shirtless, Sunny, and Sponsored?
Dylan, 33, gave his followers a sneak peek at the fun a day earlier, posting a video montage of the lakeside hangout. His Instagram video opened with the text “Describe summer in one word,” set to the breezy Briscoe track “Easy Does It.” His answer? “This.”
The video shows the brothers taking turns launching themselves off a dock into the water, wearing only swim trunks, and presumably a brand deal, as Dylan tagged Vuori in both the caption and the clip.
Also making an appearance: Dylan’s longtime girlfriend Courtney King, who got tossed into the water by her man like a true lakeside rite of passage. (Cute aggression is real.)
While the brotherly bonding and ab-filled photos stole the spotlight this week, Dylan recently reminded fans he’s more than just pretty abs and a middle-part haircut. During an April episode of Brooke & Connor Make a Podcast, the “Traitors” star recounted a surprisingly dramatic story from his first visit to Miami’s South Beach.
“I walk up to the shore for the first time ever, and I’m looking out and it was just people screaming in the water,” Dylan recalled. He, actor Sam Asghari, and their friend Brandon ended up rescuing several girls who were caught in a rip current. Dylan brushed it off with a shrug, calling it “random,” but honestly? He’s a certified lifeguard in our hearts.
After the group was safe, Dylan simply hugged one of the girls, said “you’re safe,” and walked off like a shirtless superhero with no need for applause. Iconic.
A Little Brotherly Thirst This Holiday Weekend
Whether they’re goofing off in cowboy hats, saving lives on the beach, or just giving the gays everything they want via Instagram, the Efron brothers continue to deliver. Their Fourth of July-week energy is peak summer fun, wholesome, hot, and hilariously low-effort.
Love was quite literally in the air at the WorldPride DC kickoff celebration, where a handful of unsuspecting LGBTQIA+ couples were whisked into an unforgettable moment: surprise wedding ceremonies hosted by none other than drag royalty, Sasha Colby.
The glamorous gathering, hosted by Them and Destination DC at Succotash, transformed into an impromptu queer love fest as Colby officiated the heartfelt unions. The ceremonies aligned beautifully with a significant milestone — the 10th anniversary of marriage equality in the United States.
A Toast to Love (and Cake, of Course)
What’s a wedding without the trimmings? Guests were treated to the full fairytale treatment: a decadent wedding cake, lush florals fit for a Pride-themed Pinterest board, and a sparkling champagne tower that had everyone raising a glass to queer joy. The surprise ceremonies were met with laughter, tears, and cheers from a room full of chosen family and allies.
Sasha Colby has been on whirlwind ride of global appearances ever since her RuPaul’s Drag Race win, but with this, she’s also delivering more than just glamour, she’s bringing gravitas, humor, and heartfelt sincerity to the couples’ big moment.
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 30: Sasha Colby performs a marriage ceremony for Barry Hoy and Teraj Allen as Them and Destination DC kick off World Pride 2025 at Succotash on May 30, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo: Paul Morigi/Getty Images for ThemWASHINGTON, DC – MAY 30: Sasha Colby greets guests as Them and Destination DC kick off World Pride 2025 at Succotash on May 30, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo: Paul Morigi/Getty Images for ThemWASHINGTON, DC – MAY 30: (L-R) Barry Hoy and Teraj Allen celebrate their marriage as Them and Destination DC kick off World Pride 2025 at Succotash on May 30, 2025 in Washington, DC. Photo: Paul Morigi/Getty Images for Them
A Pride Month to Remember
The event marked the official kickoff of Them’s Pride Month programming. Editor-in-Chief Fran Tirado took a moment to speak to the crowd, emphasizing the importance of honoring queer stories — not just the struggles, but the celebrations too.
Colby also graced the stage with a performance that had guests out of their seats and living for every beat. It was a perfect blend of performance art and emotional resonance — exactly the kind of energy you want when ushering in a month dedicated to queer joy and resilience.
Earlier in the week, Them launched their Pride coverage with a bold cover reveal featuring The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey. The media outlet promises more big moments throughout the month, including exclusive features, interviews, and fresh cover stories spotlighting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Marriage, Magic, and Momentum
In a cultural climate where queer rights continue to be debated and defended, events like these do more than dazzle — they affirm. The surprise weddings weren’t just sweet — they were symbolic of how far we’ve come and how powerful visibility can be.
Sasha Colby’s impromptu officiating gig might not have been on anyone’s Pride bingo card, but it turned out to be the heartwarming highlight of the evening. And as the champagne flowed and confetti settled, one thing was clear: Pride in D.C. had officially begun — with love leading the way.
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 30: (L-R) Fran Tirado and Sasha Colby make a champagne toast as Them and Destination DC kick off World Pride 2025 at Succotash on May 30, 2025 in Washington, DC. Photo: Paul Morigi/Getty Images for ThemWASHINGTON, DC – MAY 30: Sasha Colby (center) and guests attend as Them and Destination DC kick off World Pride 2025 at Succotash on May 30, 2025 in Washington, DC. Photo: Paul Morigi/Getty Images for Them
In a year where DEI programs have become political lightning rods, a powerful cohort of companies is sending a different message: regardless of the noise, they’re not going anywhere. These 24 brands are actively resisting anti-DEI pressure and reaffirming their commitment to inclusion, from internal programs to external activism. Here’s a closer look at the brands that aren’t just talking the talk, they’re building more equitable workplaces and communities.
Tech and Finance Companies Doubling Down on DEI
Apple: In February 2024, Apple shareholders rejected a proposal from a conservative think tank to end the company’s DEI programs, according to CBS. These initiatives include partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and a racial equity initiative providing outreach and training in downtown Detroit. Apple maintained that its DEI programs are critical for fostering a “culture of belonging.”
Cisco: CEO Chuck Robbins defended Cisco’s DEI approach in a January interview with Axios, emphasizing the business value of diverse teams. “There’s too much business value,” he said, adding that some aspects may evolve, but the core of DEI remains essential.
Quote from Cisco: ‘At Cisco, inclusion is about enabling people to connect and collaborate across distance and difference. We approach inclusion as a core competency that we leverage to accelerate and amplify Cisco’s existing business goals and mission.’ Photo: Cisco
Microsoft: Despite laying off parts of its DEI team in 2023, Microsoft has continued to publicly support DEI. Chief Diversity Officer Lindsey-Rae McIntyre stated that Microsoft’s original mission requires “a commitment to diversity and inclusion.” The company hosts nearly 50 community groups that support underrepresented voices within its workforce.
JPMorgan Chase: CEO Jamie Dimon has reiterated the company’s ongoing support for DEI, including fellowship programs aimed at Black and Latino students and multiple employee resource groups.
Airlines and Travel Firms Staying the Course
Delta Air Lines: Delta reaffirmed its commitment to DEI during a January earnings call. The executive vice president made it clear: “Really, DE&I is about talent, and that’s been our focus.” Delta maintains a DEI landing page, emphasizing the value of inclusion across its global operations.
Southwest Airlines: On its website, Southwest Airlines explains its DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) philosophy, stating “inclusion has always been at the Heart of Southwest.” CEO Bob Jordan confirmed the company is reviewing federal guidelines but hasn’t pulled back from its internal policies.
Quote from Southwest: ‘At Southwest Airlines, our Heart represents our identity. It’s more than the symbol of our brand. It’s who we are.’ Photo: Southwest
Marriott: CEO Anthony Capuano reaffirmed Marriott’s long-standing commitment to welcoming all people, regardless of changing political winds. He said the company received over 40,000 messages from associates thanking leadership for standing by DEI values.
Food and Beverage Brands Holding Strong
Ben & Jerry’s: With a decades-long history of social activism, Ben & Jerry’s remains a beacon of progressive corporate policy. In 2024, the company sued parent company Unilever for trying to suppress its public stance on Palestinian rights. From supporting Black Lives Matter to climate justice, DEI is embedded in its identity.
Coca-Cola: While some executives, like CFO John Murphy, have signaled potential compliance with federal rollbacks, Coca-Cola continues to feature DEI as a core value on its website and in its annual reporting. The company is aiming for gender parity in leadership roles by 2030.
Quote from Coca-Cola: ‘We leverage the remarkable diversity of people across the world to achieve our purpose of refreshing the world and making a difference.’ Photo: Coca-Cola
Costco: In January, over 98% of Costco’s shareholders voted to retain DEI policies, rejecting an anti-DEI proposal. The company’s DEI page outlines inclusive conversation programs and ongoing training in unconscious bias and cultural competency.
Kroger: The grocery chain has DEI initiatives covering racial awareness training and internal equity audits. Its website still prominently features its commitment to inclusivity.
Cosmetics and Fashion Companies That Didn’t Flinch
e.l.f. Cosmetics: The brand boasts a board made up of over 75% women and 75% people of color. In a January 2024 CNN interview, the CEO reaffirmed e.l.f.’s investment in DEI, referencing campaigns like “So Many Dicks,” which spotlighted corporate boardroom inequality.
Francesca’s: In January, the CEO posted on LinkedIn that “respect and inclusion are good for business,” reinforcing the company’s continued internal DEI policies.
Lush Cosmetics: Known for bold activism, Lush temporarily renamed three of its best-selling bath bombs to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in protest of federal DEI rollbacks. Its U.S. website plainly states: “We believe in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”
Macy’s: Macy’s retains a chief DE&I officer and continues public support for inclusive hiring and workplace policies.
Nordstrom: The department store has not rolled back its DEI efforts. Its 2023 impact report tracked diversity across suppliers and outlined charitable donations aimed at social equity.
Old Navy: The company has committed to doubling the representation of Black and Latinx employees in its U.S. offices by 2025. This goal remains live on its corporate website.
Sephora: The retailer remains one of the most proactive on DEI, pledging 15% of shelf space to Black-owned brands. Its short film “Beauty & Belonging” showcased diverse voices within the beauty industry.
T.J. Maxx: T.J. Maxx continues to support internal resource groups focused on underrepresented communities and has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating prison labor from its supply chain.
Quote from T.J. Maxx: ‘A workforce that includes people from a variety of backgrounds and with a diversity of experiences and perspectives can help us to think creatively, remain agile, and be true to our values.’ Photo: T.J. Maxx
Ulta: Ulta’s CEO confirmed continued investment in DEI efforts, including $75 million in funding between 2021 and 2022. The company also launched the MUSE Accelerator to support beauty brands from marginalized communities.
Sports and Media Companies Upholding Inclusion
NFL: Commissioner Roger Goodell has said the league remains committed to diversity, calling it a proven method of improving outcomes both on and off the field. Programs like the Rooney Rule, which mandates diverse hiring pools, are still active.
Disney: Shareholders overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to leave the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index, with 99% voting to stay. The company still receives perfect scores, although some recent creative decisions, like replacing a trans character with an “openly Christian” one suggest tension between public DEI commitments and storytelling.
Pinterest: Unlike other social platforms, Pinterest has doubled down on DEI. Its site notes that inclusion is embedded in product design and company operations. Still, in a February 10-K filing, the company warned that backlash to DEI could pose a business risk.
Quote from Pinterest: ‘We are dedicated to driving innovation and enhancing the employee experience by embedding inclusion, belonging and accessibility into everything we do; using data-driven strategies to empower our Pinners, people and products.’ Photo: Pinterest
Levi Strauss & Co.: In response to a shareholder proposal to dismantle its DEI programs, more than 99% voted against it. CEO Michelle Gass told WWD that DEI is “core to who we are.”
DEI Is Not Dead, It’s Just Being Reframed
While some companies have walked back DEI commitments to avoid political pressure, many major players remain outspoken and consistent. These businesses view diversity not just as a moral imperative but as a competitive advantage. Whether it’s through internal training, public activism, or transparency reports, these companies are proving that inclusive workplaces are good for people, and good for business.
