Parent company Equalpride cuts staff, impacting editorial leadership at Out Magazine, The Advocate, and Pride.com.
- March 16, 2026
AceShowbiz - Equalpride, the parent company behind prominent LGBTQ outlets Out Magazine, The Advocate, and Pride.com, has recently undergone significant staff reductions, impacting several of its editorial leaders.
Rachel Shatto, who had been serving as editor-in-chief of Pride.com since 2021, confirmed in a LinkedIn post on Monday that her final day was the previous Friday. Reflecting on her tenure, she described the experience as one filled with "enormous satisfaction and humility," highlighting the publication’s commitment to joy and uplifting storytelling alongside its informative and entertaining content.
Shatto expressed deep appreciation for her team, emphasizing that her achievements were inseparable from their "incredible work." She stated, "I'm deeply grateful for their drive, dedication and talent. I will miss working alongside them most of all." While uncertain about her next professional steps, she conveyed excitement for the opportunities ahead.
Similarly, Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière, the community editor for Out Magazine, announced her departure via Instagram. She revealed she was laid off after nearly four years with the company, where she contributed to shaping newsroom operations, editorial direction, and content across the company's media properties.
In her statement, de la Ferrière acknowledged the challenges facing the media industry today but expressed heartbreak over the decision. She added that advocating for queer media as a Black trans creative was among the most meaningful aspects of her career.
Alex Cooper, who held the role of editor-in-chief at The Advocate, also indicated their departure from Equalpride by updating their LinkedIn profile. Their banner now reads "Open to Work," and their experience section notes the exit from the company occurred in February 2026.
Additionally, Mey Rude, a contributor for both Out Magazine and The Advocate, shared on Instagram that they were part of the recent layoffs. Rude reflected on nearly six years with the organization and expressed pride in having championed lesbian, trans, and QTPoC voices through their work in queer journalism and criticism.
Despite the difficult news, Rude conveyed well wishes to Equalpride, hoping the company will continue to produce quality queer journalism during a time when such media is critically needed. They also shared a desire to have remained with the organization for many more years.
As of now, representatives for Equalpride have not responded to requests for comment regarding the layoffs and future plans.