Almost two weeks have passed by since the brutal killing of George Floyd by white police officers in Minneapolis; an injustice impossible to comprehend as well as the pain and anger that many are feeling, especially in the Black Community.
Unfortunately, racism has been present in the world for centuries, but some deal with it all their lives, even on a daily basis.
2020 has been a year for reflection and to take action, so now we are all standing with the Black Community.
On June 2nd, the music industry show their support by posting a full-square black image and social media has exploded with all kinds of posts-related over the past days.
Agencies have also raised their voices: some joined protests while others offer their help to support black colleagues. But more importantly, many leaders have realized it’s time to rethink policies and create a more cohesive environment when hiring.
This is the closest thing we have to an “official statement.” It was created by three R/GAers, @brandonleeheard, Rowan Mansfield & Babo Schokker, and shared with the agency as a reminder that the time for words is over, and that everybody has a role to play. pic.twitter.com/2R47woHr5k
— R/GA (@RGA) June 3, 2020
Listen. Plan. Organize. Act. Vote.#BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/Dh86YPg3Pp
— firstborn (@firstborn_nyc) June 1, 2020
We out here… and we’re not staying silent. Some of our very own took to the streets to let their voices be heard. This injustice has gone on far too long. It's time to stand up in solidarity. #justiceforgeorgefloyd #blacklivesmatter pic.twitter.com/tUDbnpAMMD
— Pulse Creative (@PulseCreativeNY) June 2, 2020
Our mission has always been to advance the human experience through design. But we are failing that mission if we don’t stand up and speak out against the systemic violence perpetrated against black people in this country. We stand with #BlackLivesMatter for a better future.
— frog design (@frogdesign) June 1, 2020
— Big Spaceship (@bigspaceship) June 1, 2020
We have a duty of care to speak up about issues surrounding race. We place high importance on diversity and inclusion & we know there is still more work to be done! Here are some things our employees believe will make a difference #BlackLivesMatter https://t.co/FxIuKqoHZF pic.twitter.com/4HHxCd4HUC
— Wavemaker Global (@WavemakerGlobal) June 2, 2020
It’s time to take action. Geometry supports our @GeometryUK office and commits to @CreativeEquals. #AdlandCommits #BlackLivesMatter https://t.co/W1E4nnSqDH
— Geometry (@GeometryGlobal) June 4, 2020
The time for change is long overdue. Black people – we hear you and we stand with you. #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/c1D6wUcMbg
— Flag (@flagcomm) June 4, 2020
A message from our CEO and Founder, Calvin Carter #blacklivesmatter pic.twitter.com/hMO7uXRn8m
— Bottle Rocket (@_BottleRocket) June 3, 2020
Even though our Hearts are heavy, now is not the time to look away. It is the time to see and support each other, to have the hard conversations, and to be an ally to our community. #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/zukHM56uF6
— hearts_science (@Hearts_Science) June 3, 2020
“We all must do whatever we can right now — no matter how big or small — to support.” – @bazadodg (President & Founder). Please join us and take action today: https://t.co/HZn3cax5P6 #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/JpUqqILQYi
— Situation (@Situation) June 1, 2020
"It’s time to educate ourselves so we have the words and knowledge to have courageous and brave conversations." @BarriRafferty shares Ketchum’s anti-racism resource guide. #BlackLivesMatter https://t.co/I4bv53iP96
— Ketchum (@KetchumPR) June 4, 2020
“We recognize that systemic racism is embedded in our society and, as a result, in our work at Forum One, we are taking a hard look at the ways it shows up in our own institution and the work we do.” https://t.co/DxLSLXlY4z #blacklivesmatter
— Forum One (@ForumOne) June 3, 2020
Black Lives Matter.
Statement from the Board of Directors and Staff of The One Club for Creativity. For resources, head to: https://t.co/SikKSkYllS pic.twitter.com/9xZ9TjVONF
— The One Club for Creativity (@TheOneClub) June 3, 2020
We’ve compiled a list of resources that help challenge and educate on structural racism within the UK.
Let’s #amplifymelenatedvoices and in doing so, shed bias, identify and unlearn racist behaviour.#BlackLivesMatter —> https://t.co/ff4qkxAxrF pic.twitter.com/cVA9BArbW3
— SHAPE HISTORY #BlackLivesMatter (@ShapeHistory) June 3, 2020
We can not sit back and be silent. This injustice must end.
Pick up the phone. Make the calls. Use your voice. #justiceforfloyd #justiceahmaud #justiceforbre #IRunWithMaud #justiceforninapop #tonymcdade #sayhername #sayhisname #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/EFf57appvG— Havas Media Group (@HavasMedia) June 1, 2020
It’s sad these tragedies have to happen for people to take conscious but it’s never too late for change. Please feel free to share in comments any more ways you find to help.