Exploring Commitment: Analyzing Supportiveness and Advocacy

In the world of advertising, the conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion has gained significant prominence in recent times. One such podcast that is delving deep into these topics is the Beyond the Pledge series.

Hosted by Jai Tedeschi, the podcast features insightful discussions with industry leaders about allyship towards BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) colleagues. In one of the latest episodes, Tedeschi interviews Tony Effik, the founder of Black and Brilliant, a platform that celebrates and amplifies Black talent in the creative industry.

Effik, who emphasises the importance of BIPOC people being seen as 'culture-adds' rather than 'culture fits', shares his thoughts on what it means to be an ally. He stresses that true allyship involves supporting a Black person even when they are not present, and creating a network for each other to help one another succeed.

The Beyond the Pledge series also discusses the importance of BIPOC representation across the board, closing the wealth gap, embracing data transparency, and promoting workplace inclusion. Effik further highlights that increasing diversity and inclusion requires authenticity, standing up for culture, and bringing people's whole selves to work.

Brands and agencies have made pledges to address systemic racism and express their continued allyship beyond Black History Month. However, a search of results from 2020 has yet to identify any specific firms or agencies that have issued such pledges.

The podcast can be streamed below, and it can also be found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other popular podcast platforms. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the role BIPOC people play in increasing diversity and inclusion in various industries, and for those seeking to be better allies.

Employing Black-owned startups and suppliers is another crucial step towards closing the wealth gap, a necessary step for creating true diversity. As the conversation around allyship and diversity continues to evolve, the Beyond the Pledge series provides a platform for these important discussions.