A
Moment
To A
Movement
One year ago, George Floyd was killed by the police. His death, along with the murders of Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, sparked a global response that evolved into a movement for justice and equity across all
aspects of society. We made a commitment to work towards solutions and change for the Black community - and we're keeping ourselves accountable.
starting with what we said on june 1, 2020
Our clients have been active members of
this movement, using their platforms and
influence to keep the social justice and
equality conversation going.
Here’s how we’ve honored our
commitment over the last year
Created and Distributed Anti-Racism Resource Guides for employees and clients
Hired two roles dedicated to equity and inclusion work across entire business
Invested in and provided resources to key organizations focused on social justice initiatives
Executed Anti-Bias training and educational panels on key issues impacting the Black community
WE’RE DONE MAKING STATEMENTS.
WE’RE PUSHING FORWARD WITH
MORE ACTION.
OUR COMMITMENT TO THE BLACK COMMUNITY
MOVING FORWARD WILL BE focused on:
Uplifting Black Talent
Real Opportunities for Black Businesses
Prioritizing Measurable Progress
KEY INITIATIVES
We believe that change starts with empathy - and without understanding and education,
empathy cannot exist. We are focused on
addressing issues head on, leaning into
uncomfortable conversations and identifying
solutions we can implement.
We will continue to consult and guide our brands and
properties clients
on how they can play their part in this global conversation
This year, we launched Wasserman Music, which brought with it a partnership with Color of Change and their #ChangeMusic platform – a concerted effort to make meaningful and measurable impact across our company and the music industry.
“
“
"Dismantling racism requires both the commitment of industry partners and accountability support from groups like Color Of Change and the public. We appreciate Wasserman making this commitment to move the industry towards racial justice through signing on to #ChangeMusic and we're looking forward to supporting the implementation of the roadmap moving forward.
Amity Paye
Interim Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Director of Communications for Color Of Change
NEW PARTNERSHIPS
Organizations that will push our recruiting,
mentorship and measurement goals forward
WHAT’S NEXT
FOR THE MOVEMENT
AND OUR WORK?
“I’m much more hopeful about where we are as a society today as compared to last year. People can no longer ignore the racial injustice that is pervasive in all facets of society, and it feels like Black Lives Matter has become more than just a statement that gets some traction in the immediate response to publicized police brutality. The biggest change that I’ve noticed is just how many people outside of the Black community have fully embraced the movement and are trying to do the work. But, this is just the beginning, and we have so much still left to do.”
Alanna Frisby Hernandez
Executive Vice President, Business Affairs, Team Sports
“Last year was an awakening. We saw, on video, what has been happening in Black communities around the country. A year later, more of us are taking action but many are still turning a cheek. If we are going to move forward, we need to be more than allies; we need to be co-conspirators – engaging and taking action. Progress happens when we have uncomfortable conversations, recognize our privilege, and change the way we think about white supremacy.”
Cheryl Mark
Associate Vice President, Brands
“In order for us to move forward and keep the fight for equity and equality for Black people going, we have to put real actions in place. Real policies. Real work. Don’t just agree with our plight or send solidarity messages out – let’s walk the talk. Because it’s still Black Lives Matter until ALL Black Lives Matter.”
Eden Andu
Director of HR/DE&I
“I read recently that the notion of being overwhelmed when it comes to bringing about societal change is a weapon meant to prevent that change. That struck a chord with me because it’s so easy to think “I am just one person, how can I have an impact?” It’s so easy to be frustrated by the unwillingness of entirely too many to find empathy and humanity. So, I choose to remain hopeful and to appreciate every mind opened, every voice uplifted, and every lesson learned, especially my own.”
Ceri Mobley
Senior Director, Brands
THERE IS MORE WORK TO BE DONE - AND WE CONTINUE TO STAND FIRM IN OUR COMMITMENT TO BEING THE CHANGE WE WANT TO SEE
IN THE WORLD
DESIGNED BY
THE COLLECTIVE THINK TANK