How PR agencies can initiate a culture of DE&I change

Never has the term “growing pains” been more apt than in 2020. Multiple high-profile incidents of systemic racism have spotlighted inequity and bias—unconscious or otherwise—within our country and its institutions. This includes the communications sector.

The good news is this: What we are willing to name we can examine, and what we are willing to examine we can change. The better news is that our industry is in a position to change ourselves and change others. As advisors to every sector, we can seize this moment to not only guide our clients in positioning themselves as diverse and inclusive but help them become truly equitable.

But before we start talking, we need to do a better job walking. We can’t give expert advice on things we as agencies are not doing. Otherwise, our counsel will be rooted in empty pledges and commitments, with no understanding of how to make them real. Too many businesses and organizations have made public pronouncements and promises—then moved on. When we are a party to this, we are part of the problem.

So, agencies, let’s heal ourselves:

Move past the numbers