Amid a troubling rise in attacks against Asian communities and people, Facebook last week hosted a panel session, in conjunction with the Asian-American Advertising Federation, which aimed to raise awareness of the issue among brands and advertisers, and provide notes on how businesses can counter anti-Asian rhetoric.
You can view the full video of the session here, but stemming from the discussion, which included representatives from the Hispanic Marketing Council, IW Group and Facebook itself, The Social Network has published seven key tips for brands looking to do more to support Asian communities.
1. “Tell your story”
By sharing stories from Asian communities, you can increase understanding, and provide perspective from Asian American people.
2. Go further than a solidarity statement
More than simply voicing support, brands should look to translate those commitments into real, meaningful action.
3. Hold other brands accountable
Panel participants advised that advertisers should look support minority-owned media – and to hold other brands accountable, via social media, for the same.
4. Consider where your brand money goes
Advertisers should also consider where they’re investing their ad dollars, and the impacts of that spend, from an ethical perspective.
5. Do more to connect with subject matter experts
Brands can ensure that they get a better understanding of the key issues, and how they can support such, by meeting with relevant experts in the field, and leaders who are dealing with these issues.
6. Ensure diverse representation in leadership positions
A key push, in all aspects, is to look to maximize diversity in leadership. This applies to women, people of color – all elements of societal diversity. Not all brands are in a position to action this, but for those that are, representation can be an important step.
7. Have and create empathy
The main point throughout all of these tips relates to having empathy, and ensuring that a breadth of perspectives are considered within your brand decision making.
These are important tips, addressing a crucially important issue – because as the events of the last year have shown us, there are still significant societal divides that need to be overcome in order to create a truly inclusive and collaborative community.
The only way for us to advance is to evolve beyond the flawed perceptions of times past, and celebrate the skills and contributions of each and every individual. That’s how we improve understanding and inclusion, and as noted in Facebook’s session, brands and advertisers can play a key role within this.
