The news about Rachel Dolezal was, and continues to be, a confusing story for me to wrap my head around. In terms of brand management, I suppose she did a good job of carefully constructing an image of herself that she wanted as her public profile. In that sense, she was successful in identifying the aspects of a character she wanted other people to see and acting in a way that supported that information. The problem is that it was a character, and an act that comes dangerously close to blackface. Essentially false advertisement, her claims of being a black woman extends far beyond her hairstyles and her choice of university, and stems from a need for her to be someone she truly is not. For a white woman to portray herself as black, especially in a time in America when prejudice against black and brown bodies is making news almost every day, trivializes and demeans other authentic experiences. As she was a professor of African-American Studies and president of an NAACP chapter, I can only assume her actions were, in fact, made with good intentions. However, there is a very important distinction between having a strong appreciation of a culture and actually assimilating oneself into its midst.
With the “Me Too” and “Times Up” movements against sexual abuse and harassment in the workplace, women’s voices loudly resound and command national discourse. We are emboldened.
As technology advances and our earth’s resources recede, quality products and excellent customer service aren’t enough to develop and grow your business.
Soak Up the Solar Eclipse! Did you find a pair of glasses for Monday’s solar eclipse? It’s the first one for the 21st century and the nation is excited for this out-of-the-ordinary celestial event. So get in on the frenzy, business owners! Where applicable, offer your customers and clients solar-themed specials or eclipse extras. Invite…
“Expect nothing. Live frugally on surprise.” – Alice Walker www.eimpactconsulting.com Your strategic communication, marketing, brand management and public relations partner.
Subscribe To Our Quarterly Newsletter
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.