As values-based organizations, our responses to moments like these are critical and meaningful.
The George Floyd murder and ensuing response is a national crisis.
Our Black communities have been asking for change to police excessive force and brutality for all of history and this latest murder, video and initial response by the police appears to be the final straw.
With a pandemic and economic crisis as the backdrop for this scenario, I think we can all feel the gravity of what is happening right now.
As the leader of a digital agency, I want to share a few things:
Our Black employees, colleagues and customers need our support right now. Please, consider mental and emotional crisis support to help them process their pain and fear. They may need PTO and they definitely need to know that they are safe at work, along with the steps we are taking to ensure they feel safe.
Consider internal company-wide communications to ensure all employees know that this is a very sensitive time and you expect all employees to act in accordance with company values. In this moment, that means (fill in how you expect people to behave towards one another and towards customers, clients, etc).
Consider reviewing all marketing and social media materials to ensure they are appropriate at this moment. Pausing to address this very real issue is highly recommended where appropriate.
Be a safe place for diverse employees and take the time to get help if you are not sure what is the right thing to do. Not doing anything is often worse than trying and bumbling your way through it honestly and respectfully.
More than ever, the world needs authentic, kind, and heart-felt leadership. And most importantly - transformational change .
