Brand Advocacy in 2025 and Beyond: Supporting Diversity and Inclusion

In today's rapidly evolving social landscape, brands have a unique opportunity to champion diversity and inclusion. Let's explore how companies can make a real difference for Women, People of Color, and the LGBTQ+ community.

The Power of Authentic Advocacy

Authentic advocacy goes beyond surface-level gestures. It's about embedding inclusivity into your brand's DNA and taking meaningful action.

1. Walk the Talk

Start from within by examining your company's policies, hiring practices, and workplace culture. Ensure that your internal practices align with your public messaging. This includes implementing diverse hiring panels, setting diversity targets for leadership positions, and creating inclusive workplace policies.

2. Year-Round Commitment

Advocacy should be a consistent effort, not just during designated months or events. Brands should strive to support marginalized communities throughout the year through ongoing partnerships, sustained funding, and regular engagement with these communities.

3. Amplify Diverse Voices

Use your platform to elevate voices from underrepresented communities. Partner with diverse creators and influencers to share authentic stories and experiences. This could involve featuring diverse voices in your marketing campaigns or sponsoring events led by marginalized communities.

Tackling Specific Issues

For Women

Brands should focus on addressing gender equality, supporting women's empowerment, and promoting women in leadership roles. A notable example is Bumble, the dating app founded by Whitney Wolfe Herd, which empowers women by allowing them to make the first move. In 2023, Bumble launched the #BetterTogether campaign to promote women's safety online and support initiatives aimed at combating harassment in digital spaces (https://www.bumble.com).

For People of Color

Promote racial equity and support diverse creators. Color of Change's #ChangeFashion initiative developed the first inclusion rider for the fashion industry, aiming to increase representation of Black talent in the fashion world (https://colorofchange.org)).

For the LGBTQ+ Community

Educate, engage, and support LGBTQ+ rights. American Eagle and their sister brand Aerie have shown unwavering commitment to connecting LGBTQ+ youth to community resources through their Pride Collection, with proceeds helping to fund the "50 States. 50 Grants. 5000 Voices." initiative ([American Eagle](https://www.ae.com)).

The Power of Partnerships

Partner with organizations that have deep roots in these communities. This can lend credibility to your efforts and ensure that your support is truly meaningful. Consider long-term partnerships that allow for sustained impact rather than one-off collaborations.

Representation Matters

Strive for authentic representation in your marketing and advertising. Ensure that your campaigns reflect the diversity of your audience and the communities you aim to support. This includes representation both in front of and behind the camera, as well as in decision-making roles within your organization.

Listen and Learn

Create channels for ongoing dialogue with these communities. Be open to feedback and willing to adapt your approach based on the needs and concerns of marginalized groups. This could involve creating advisory boards or conducting regular listening sessions.

Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

Back your advocacy with action. This could include financial contributions, creating inclusive products, or implementing policies that support underrepresented communities. Consider allocating a percentage of your profits to support organizations working for these causes.

Be Prepared for Pushback

Taking a stand means you might face criticism. Be prepared with a clear, consistent message about why these issues matter to your brand. Develop a crisis communication plan and ensure all team members are aligned on your values and messaging.

The Business Case for Advocacy

Advocacy isn't just about doing good; it can be good for business too. By authentically engaging with diverse communities, you're tapping into powerful consumer bases and building brand loyalty. Studies have shown that consumers, especially younger generations, are more likely to support brands that align with their values.

Conclusion: The Time to Act is Now

Now and in the near future, marginalized communities need allies more than ever. As a brand, you have the power to make a real difference. Remember, true advocacy is a journey, not a destination. It requires ongoing commitment, learning, and action. By taking meaningful steps to support diversity and inclusion, brands can play a crucial role in creating a more equitable society.