As I’ve been listening and learning over the past months, BIPOC leaders have been asking brands to come forward with a public anti-racism statement.
This is something that can be viewed on your website, as one way to stand in alliance with Black people and People of Color.
It’s a commitment to building and maintaining an anti-racist business.
One of the most important parts of this request is for the statement to be made thoughtfully, knowing that the words are nothing without action.
How will you reallocate funds to Black-owned businesses?
How will you diversify your team and ensure Black representation?
How will you represent Black Folx in your marketing and branding, without perpetuating tokenism?
These questions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to creating a more equitable brand.
In July, I added my anti-racism statement to the Factory45 website after working with a DEI coach to ensure I could uphold my commitment.
And the intentions behind my words have been a primary focus this summer, as they will continue to be.
So, I have two calls to action for my fellow business owners and Factory45’ers today:
1.) Create your own statement and publish it publicly on your website (if you haven’t already). My statement is above the footer of my website if you scroll down. Feel free to use the words to make it your own, as mine is an adaptation from Rachel Rodger’s Anti-racist Small Business Pledge found here.
*It goes without saying, but the actions are more important than the words. This is not a marketing tactic or a branding opportunity, rather it’s a way to hold your business accountable to the commitment you’re making.
2.) If you haven’t made it a priority to reevaluate your business and how it can be more inclusive and diverse, then I have a free exercise for you here. It was inspired and guided by another DEI consultant Erica Courdae.
This public declaration is one step.
It’s one small thing we can do to ignite change.
And there’s no question that the world needs it.
