Diversity and Inclusion matter because social justice is everyone’s concern. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a better person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in.”
Issues like systemic racism and discrimination in any field must be confronted and not allowed to fester. Maintaining indifference to these critical conversations leaves content creators of color out in the cold. Since the recent attention on the lack of diversity and inclusion within media, today brands should feel increased pressure to hire more diverse professionals.
Embracing true diversity and inclusion with talented People of Color is what we ask for, but often than not, it is rarely sought after. Instead, it is replaced with the condescending act of tokenism. Tokenism is the practice of working with a small number of POC only for the sake of the appearance of equality.
Simply put, tokenism plays a huge part in the world of media and advertising today.
This kind of diversity is not inclusive but a ploy for optics.
People of color have been underrepresented and underpaid in media and marketing industries for years.
Although some organizations actively address discriminatory policies in their companies, not enough is done with media representation. People of Color will not accept business as usual in today’s environment. Ad agencies and media buyers have to get involved to change the narrative. They must educate brands on the importance of inclusive marketing campaigns that reflect the diversity of their customer base.
As Dr. King so eloquently said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Content creators of color that have already established their expertise in the industry have to amplified their concerns about the marginalization occurring within this niche.
Dr. King fought against the practice of denying people opportunities simply because of the color of their skin. Fortunately, he has inspired many to fight against social injustice in society today.
ysp Digital Agency is here to combat the exclusion of content creators of color. We have made this our responsibility and our heartfelt mission. As Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stated, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
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