Racism, discrimination and hatred are wrong. In fact, each of those things kill human beings. The agency has a storied history of standing up to issues of racism, discrimination and hatred. The movement and energy always start with those who raise their voice. Those who speak the truth. Thank you BLK (GSD&M’s Black affinity group) for speaking your heart and your truth with us during this time and know that I, as well as the rest of the leadership team, stand with you. Always. GSD&M is a safe zone. We are here to listen, support and advocate for each and every one of you, no matter what.
Why does that happen? It is because we are fed that misinformation from music, movies, TV and, yes, advertising. Just like COVID-19 stopped the world in its tracks, George Floyd and others gave their lives to allow us all to rethink, restart and revive how we embrace multiculturalism in America. This “new normal” will require everyone, not just People of Color, to excel at racial, ethnic and cultural awareness so that stereotypes are a thing of the past. In the meantime, our CEO, Duff Stewart, and president, Marianne Malina, continue to embrace the GSD&M tradition of standing up for what is right for our people, our clients and, most importantly, our culture by supporting our Black employees and others affected by this personally and professionally. GSD&M would not have it any other way.
Diversity has been defined as the art of thinking independently together. At GSD&M, Diversity & Inclusion means a collaboration of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability and thought. We grow and nurture a safe environment for our people so that we can fuel and champion a creative environment for ideas.
Affinity Groups are GSD&Mers who share a passion, life stage or culture, who have common pastimes, goals or causes, and want a stronger bond within the GSD&M community. Whether it’s what you were born as or what you were born to do, there is an affinity group for you!
Inspired by our client Capital One and recent events, GSD&M is introducing 99.9%, the Ally Employee Resource group, which is dedicated to the advancement of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for GSD&Mers, our clients, culture and our work. The evolution must start with the strength of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages, life stages and perspectives. We have representation in all areas, and we are now using it for the good of our agency and the world.