The chart above appears in Chapter 4 of Madison Avenue and the Color Line by Jason Chambers. It says a lot about diversity in the advertising industry during 1970—and 2008 as well. In some instances, Black representation at the top agencies was better then than now, and folks were making progress. So what happened? Well, as the chart displays, self-regulation led to inconsistent results. Plus, a lack of official enforcement meant shops could cease any positive efforts with no fear of penalty. Finally, a recession gave ad executives the excuse they needed to focus on other matters.
Is the chart above a historical record—or a prediction of the years ahead?
This is the tenth installment of MultiCultClassics’ running review of Madison Avenue and the Color Line by Jason Chambers. See the previous posts here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here.
Here in South Africa where the majority of the population is black, you still see an indifference in the ad agency...and this is Africa!
ReplyDeleteS.A also implements AA but the rule isn't enforced or companies do not receive penalties for non compliance. I think the problem lies at the top, within management.Black Economic Empowerment is slowly changes this though.
Maybe America needs a program of BEE of some sort?