Though diversity and inclusion have been perennial topics of discussion on Madison Avenue for decades, never has the conversation become as heated or urgent as it did in 2016. At Campaign US, we are committed to keeping this conversation going, and to honoring the work that shatters ugly stereotypes.
On Feb. 28, 2017, Campaign will present its first I&C conference, a one-day event focused on inclusivity and creativity in the ad industry. A morning of frank talk about adland's inequality problem will be followed by a celebration of the brands and agencies behind the work that breaks barriers.
Marc Strachan, VP of corporate relations and constituent affairs at Diageo North America, will serve as chairman of the event and will deliver the keynote address, "Let it Burn: A Candid Discussion of the Past, Present and Future of Ad Culture." Other topics of discussion include "Are Quotas the Way Forward," in which we'll take a fresh look at HP's, General Mill's and Verizon's new diversity requirements for agencies, and "Withstanding the Backlash: How to Stay Brave in the Face of Intolerance," in which we explore strategies for brands that endure criticism for representing progressive values.
The honors portion of the program will highlight work that breaks racial and gender stereotypes, challenges outdated clichés and prominently features underrepresented people. The brands and their creative teams will be the recipients of the honor.
"In the two years since Campaign has launched in the US, it's become clear to us that no issue is more critical than inclusion and diversity—not just among industry staff, but the work itself," said Campaign US Editor in Chief Douglas Quenqua. "We are proud that I&C will be the industry's first and only editorially led conference to address this issue. And we intend to do so with the candor and honesty the industry has come to expect from Campaign US."
Nominations can be submitted here starting today. There is no charge for nominating up until Dec. 12. An extended deadline of Dec. 19 will be offered, but nominations will be subject to a $50 late penalty.