Generally speaking, most websites, applications, and platforms lack the promotion, aspect, or feature of gender equality and diversity simply because it is easier. We’ve learned about how dominant culture is important for a holistic understanding of notions of hegemony not only in the physical world, but also in an online setting. This is linked to the factors that go into invention: social contexts, economic actors, and users of technology. Many pioneer platforms online are created by straight, white men, making the default presumption of the online world’s users correspondingly straight, white, and male as well. Simply put, straight, white men don’t think about the need for a gender equality or diversity feature in their creations, ultimately resulting in online spaces and stores like Fenty Beauty and Gap, Inc.

When women and other minorities start using these platforms and establish their presence in online spaces, the result is the obvious need for change. Online spaces that promote gender equality and diversity are rare, and women like Rihanna paved the way to changing this, one step at a time. Fenty Beauty and Gap, Inc. are just some of the many emerging platforms that are playing their role in advocating for gender equality and an increase in diversity in consumerism. Through the invitation of marginalized people on these platforms as well as the creations of exclusive platforms created by diverse women and for diverse women, we see a step being taken in making neutral online spaces that challenge hegemonic ideas and encourage self-expression. The ultimate goal is for the optimization of online spaces to its full potential for anyone regardless of their social and biological identities, making the Internet a space accessible and safe for all.