We’ve been thinking about what we can do at Bare PR to do better. To do more to promote the voices, rights and opportunities for black and minority ethnic people. More to fight against violence, oppression, discrimination, bullying, and the marginalisation of people of colour. To ensure that the deaths of George Floyd, Rayshard Brooks, and those of many others, are remembered and honoured.
Bare PR was set up as an agency of values, for brands that care; and that has always been at the heart of what we do. While our team and the clients we work with represent many cultures and backgrounds, we can always do more, and we will.
Promoting diversity in the PR Profession
Diversity in the PR profession is poor, it’s a problem that has long needed addressing. We have been talking to the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) to create some actions for change. We have also had a productive email exchange with the Editor of PR Week Arvind Hickman, to improve BME representation at all levels of the profession. The actions we put forward include greater diversity in course leaders, judges, Fellows and Board members within professional groups, diversity and inclusion training, mentorship programmes, funding support and more blogs, webinars and articles written by BME PR professionals.
Proactive on bullying
PR professionals have come forward to speak about their experiences of bullying and harassment which has led to stress, anxiety and long-term mental health difficulties, particularly in those from BME backgrounds. This is totally unacceptable. We take a zero-tolerance approach to bullying of any kind.
Our CEO Lorraine Bridges founded Proud to Mind to promote better mental health in the PR profession. She is now training to be a Mental Health First Aider with Mental Health England to proactively support and champion those experiencing bullying and other causes of mental health issues.
Buying responsibly
We have already committed to buying and sourcing our suppliers from the local community. We do not use or work with any company that supports or engages in unethical or illegal activity, including modern slavery. Our due diligence process carefully vets every company we work with or partner with. We choose to work with companies who do more for our environment, our communities and our world.
Towards BCorp accreditation
BCorp is a vital movement that takes positive action against racial discrimination, and we have long admired the community. We have started our journey towards becoming a BCorp and can’t wait to proudly join the gang
If you would like to talk to us in more detail and discuss the changes you are making in your business, we would love to hear from you.