Embracing Diversity Is More Than Supporting A Cause

Acceptance, Social Equity and Justiceare some of the words that have risen to the top of Google searches in the last few weeks. What do those words signify to you and your organization? Embracing equality, diversity and social justice entails more than just standing behind a cause when it comes to the success of a business. Do your executives, board of directors and consultants look like your customers? 

The face of America has changed, communities and neighborhoods reflect a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, languages, and experiences. Unfortunately, this diversity is not often represented inside our organizations, leaving businesses out of touch with the needs of their customers and employees. 

Diversity and Inclusion will provide your business with a competitive advantage

We commend organizations like   The Association of National Advertisers who acknowledged “limited progress in all aspects of diversity and inclusion.” In an article published in AdAge, “The organization, along with its diversity arm, the Alliance for Inclusive & Multicultural Marketing, issued a call to action on Tuesday that included a letter to member companies asking them to pledge to take steps to become more diverse and inclusive”.

Does this mean at the top of the list will be to hire executives, senior managers and consultants that look like the consumers they want to engage through their ads on behalf of clients? 

There is an opportunity to hire more Latinos into the advertising and public relations sectors where they currently make up less than 8% of senior level professionals . 

In 2020, Hispanic purchasing power is expected to top $ 2 trillion. Recruiting senior level Latino executives and consultants will be essential to leading strategies that will connect to the heart and soul of the highly sought-after Hispanic consumer. 

Latinas on Boards

Diverse voices in board rooms must also be part of the pledge from major corporations and the ANA. According to research from the Latino Corporate Directors Association (LCDA) , Latinas are among the lowest numbers represented on Corporate Boards and only 3.3% of newly appointed directors are Latinas. Changing this equation is important to economic recovery and growth in 2020.  

Organizations will have to take a step back and re-evaluate their business model. A business as usual approach isn’t going to work. 

We have been through a lot; our communities are taking steps to open our economy after Stay at Home orders in response to the covid-19 crisis. 

As a Country we also mourn the passing of George Floyd and what it signifies to each one of us “Acceptance, Social Equity and Justice”. 

As a Latina, woman-owned business in Los Angeles, diversity, inclusion and equity are ingrained in our values and identity. We are passionate about our work, leading effective multicultural campaigns, connecting our clients to non-profits, ethnic media outlets, and community stakeholders. Are you ready to see your company reflect the needs of its community? Our team of bilingual communicators and marketers are ready to help you make that next move.

www.theimagengroup.com