Action That Drives Representation
ACTION THAT DRIVES REPRESENTATION
JUNE 1, 2021
BY DEON HINTON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY:
alex gowon (@alexgowon), adam barto (@captainbarto), ben bortis (@benbortis)
Looking back at the past year, we have seen a deep increase in the understanding and importance of representation and inclusion.
However, this intent must be followed by action.
Inclusion starts at the C-Level.
Fundamentally, I believe this work begins at the highest internals of business and companies.
When companies lack diversity and representation within their leadership positions - it trickles down to a further lack of diversity and representation within media today. The content they create often push a singular standard of beauty and what is considered “normal” - alienating so many beautiful people.
To combat this, we must ensure there’s a safe, well-rounded, and diverse workspace for BIPOC and marginalized folks to feel seen and respected.
This feeling is more important than many people in power understand.
Inclusion starts with the strategy.
Adding BIPOC and queer folks to the visual strategy is larger than just a fulfillment of direction for a project, but the direction for how these communities see themselves within these spaces.
I’m often sent moodboards for projects and jobs where the talent is overwhelmingly white.
Withholding us from moodboards, design decks and reference images only further entertains the idea that we are not of substance or capable of filling the ‘aesthetic.’ The truth is, we often are the pioneers of what is trending.
Actively adding BIPOC into the visual strategy places these communities in front of power players and showcases the potential and beauty that lies within them.
Compensation should be equal and timely.
It’s important to mention the underpaying of BIPOC creators. There has to be an understanding of not only choosing to book these creators and talent of color but also paying them their worth as you do their white counterparts.
It may seem simple, but it’s one of the most important ways to show that marginalized communities are valued for the work they’ve done.
To my community reading this, your representation matters.
It always has, and it always will.
We are no longer asking for permission to enter the spaces we created.
I love you, and I hope you’re well.
— Deon
