Essay 1042

Initial opinions posted at AdAge.com in response to the story referenced in Essay 1036…

> Commitments and investments in this area are good for business, the industry, and our culture. Nevertheless, why not have hearings? Why not open up and face the complexity of issues and challenges, accept realities, and plan more comprehensive solutions? Why won’t hearings be good for everyone? They are long overdue. — NEW YORK, NY

> I understand that many people feel as if the NY commission is wrongfully targeting certain agencies, but as an educated, articulate minority working in advertising, I can tell you that it is very hard to find an agency that can look past the stereotypes that exist for minorities. I applied to quite a few agencies after I graduated, and I only got phone calls from a couple of agencies — and I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Advertising/Communications program at Florida International University. At many agencies, it seems as if the number of minorities can be counted on one hand. I think the commission is just trying to create equal opportunity for all those people out there who are equally qualified to work in the Advertising industry. What’s so wrong about that? — Ft. Lauderdale, FL

> Another government program to keep racism and bigotry prominent. And, of course, the “diversity” issue is further reaching: Why must an agency or client hire help with lifestyles not consistent with their beliefs or the character of their company? Am I breaking the law if I refuse to hire a person or agency with people with metal hanging all over their face because that person or entity is in the minority; even though that’s not part of the image I wish to project? People like John Kerry make one man’s freedom another man’s tyranny so that he can justify his existence in Congress. Public hearings? Sounds more like the Salem witch trials. — Windham, ME