Susan McPherson

Black people want the same thing everyone else wants: clean air, clean water, good-paying jobs, and for our children to be able to have quality education that's not next to fossil fuel plants. Climate is on the line in this presidential election. We know that who we elect will determine if our future is free of harm driven by big polluters. We must defend the clean energy plan because our futures literally depend on it. Check out this article by Blavity that highlights how the clean energy plan helps Black people and Black communities and how Climate Power is making that connection clear for voters: https://lnkd.in/gU9t5Dj5

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Hey WA LinkedIn community, it’s been a busy few months since the team at WAMA (WA Marketing Association Inc.) launched our DEI report. How are those DEI conversations going? Our next focus is on recruiting for our DEI taskforce. We need a small but mighty core group to hit the ground running in our DEI work. Specific role responsibilities will be defined once the taskforce is locked in, but here are some of the qualities we are looking for: 🌟LIVED EXPERIENCE: We need a varied mix of identities and lived experience represented in the taskforce, especially those from underrepresented groups. Even better if you are an active changemaker regularly advocating for your communities. 🌟WORK CONTEXT: Agency and in-house, corporate, NFP and government, we need voices from all corners of our industry. If you’re not in the marketing industry but can bring insights and learnings from another field, we want to hear from you too. 🌟SOFT SKILLS: Are you empathetic, thoughtful, and able to see an issue from different angles? Can you formally and informally resource, support and add legitimacy to our DEI efforts? Perhaps you’re a gun at creating or shaping policies, processes and practices. Or your strength is connecting people and jumping on windows of opportunity to create change? 🌟MOTIVATION: This is a big one – what motivates you to do this work? Before putting your hand up, reflect on why this is important to you and what you might like to achieve as part of the taskforce. Sound like something you want to throw yourself into? Register at this link: https://lnkd.in/gDmYnrDg Any questions, feel free to DM me :) #WeAreWAMA #DiversityEquityInclusion #WAmarketing

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Excellent chart of a dynamic I’ve witnessed several times. Enough.

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👥 Bringing Children to the #Voting Booth Matters 🗳️ And Allyson Felix is making it easier for women to #VoteLikeAMother by partnering with Chamber of Mothers to help reduce one key barrier to voting: #childcare. Together, they’re offering free/reimbursed child care services in several states, helping parents access the polls. Parents can fill out a form with their care needs and estimated costs. ➡️https://lnkd.in/g_dndB6n As parents, community members, and advocates for equity, we must nurture future voters by showing them #civicengagement in action. In my latest for EdSource, I discuss including children in voting as crucial to building an informed, engaged generation capable of advocating for their communities. Children are not passive recipients of #election outcomes; they’re capable of understanding the importance of civic responsibility from an early age. Research even shows that children can influence their parents’ civic perspectives—a powerful effect known as “trickle-up socialization.” Check out my full op-ed for insights on family voting plans, practical tips for voting with children, and the importance of youth civic engagement. Let’s keep building a legacy of informed, inclusive voters who believe in—and act on—their power to shape the future. #AmiraBarger #DEI #CivicEngagement #CivicDuty #WednesdayWisdom 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gMBEQcXW

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🎙️ On the latest episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I had the privilege of talking with Leigh Higginbotham Butler, the Founder and CEO of Akina Technologies. Our discussion delved into how Akina is meticulously crafting a new paradigm in networking specifically for women of color. In a world where technology is omnipresent, Akina stands out by leveraging digital tools and innovating them. Akina's technological ecosystem is designed to facilitate meaningful connections from a dynamic website to a forthcoming app.  Through advanced algorithms, Akina promises to match its users with information, mentors, and groups and do so with unprecedented personalization and relevance. 🔍 What truly sets Akina apart is its commitment to developing a culturally competent AI. This isn't just about building technology; it's about crafting a digital experience that understands the nuances and diversity within the community it serves. Akina's approach goes beyond the superficial, aiming to dismantle biases and foster a space where every woman of color can find resources and connections that resonate deeply with her individuality and needs. 🌍 The mission of Akina Technologies is a testament to the transformative power of technology when it's aligned with a deep understanding of the people it's meant to serve. This conversation with Leigh Higginbotham Butler is a compelling glimpse into the future of networking, where technology meets empathy and inclusivity. 🎧 Dive into the full discussion on the Innovation Storytellers Podcast to explore how Akina Technologies is shaping the future of networking for women of color. Listen to the full episode. https://lnkd.in/dC3zqP-M #innovation #podcast

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The Importance of Voting for Racial Equality | Securing Democracy's Future As the dust settles after the election, many are reflecting on the challenges our democracy faces. In times like these, it’s essential to stay engaged, stay informed, and continue advocating for a fair and just society. Let’s work together to uphold the values that strengthen our communities and our future. #DemocracyMatters #StayEngaged #CommunityFirst #ReflectAndAct

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🎙️ What does Affirmative Action mean in the fight against economic deprivation? In this compelling rebroadcasted Brooklyn Savvy episode hosted by Toni Yuille Williams, the dynamic Jennifer Jones Austin unpacks the intersection of leadership, equity, and the ongoing impact of Affirmative Action on marginalized communities. 💡 🎥 Tune in and join the conversation. Check out the full episode on Sunday at 10 AM on NYC Media and on our YouTube Channel: https://lnkd.in/eKCwW5Ym. #BrooklynSavvyTV #AffirmativeAction #EconomicJustice #Leadership #EquityAndInclusion"

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👋🏼 We wrap up our election coverage with a note on the broader movement work of persuasion. Sustainable social change occurs when we bring together a broad coalition. for social change communicators 📚 📣 this week's topic: Welcome Back! 👋🏼 We wrap up our election coverage with a note on the broader movement work of persuasion. Sustainable social change occurs when we bring together a broad coalition. Read on for more... Not yet a Flowering member? Upgrade to begin reshaping your digital communications to avoid burnout, Tired of signing up for newsletters and not finding them helpful for your everyday work? This newsletter is built differently. It’s created for you: 🌱 for cultivating social change in a chaotic digital world 🔮 for folks who want to do it differently ❤️‍🔥 for busy communicators with limited time 🧱 for folks reshaping digital communications 🤓 Read & Subscribe: https://lnkd.in/g7fnqpsc

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Breaking Barriers: Joy Kennedy for Judge Join the conversation as we unravel these truths, offering expert insights on the intersection of culture and politics, and exploring how these game-changing narratives shape our justice system. This transformative journey isn't just about legal battles; it's about unlocking the secrets to societal change. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful conversations and strategic advice as we continue to explore the stories that inspire personal and professional growth. Your engagement fuels our mission to bring you the most compelling content. #publicdefenderresources #indigentdefense #legalaid #publicdefense #publicdefendermisconceptions

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A few years ago, I worked with a global nonprofit faced with looming uncertainty and leadership transitions. Their struggles? They lacked… 🔸Message clarity 🔸Consistent programming 🔸Strategic direction 🔸Budget for the full-time senior communications support they desperately needed 🔸A clear plan to engage and retain key stakeholders After supporting them with fractional communications services, they not only saved money, but also successfully re-engaged stakeholders, grew their online presence significantly, and boosted brand perception – all in under a year! The #FractionalChiefCommunications model is ideal for small-to-mid-sized growing businesses or nonprofits that need the strategic expertise of a CCO, but can’t afford the premium salary (or benefits) this role requires. Getting this kind of high-level support is a win-win: Communications staff get the opportunity to learn, grow, and gain new skills, and the organization develops the strategic communications discipline they need to reach and engage the people most critical to business success. If your organization is poised for growth, but you’re not sure how to overcome the communications struggles that can impede progress, let’s chat. I’ll share how we can work together to strengthen your brand and achieve your business goals with a strategic approach to communications that inspires, engages, and moves your key stakeholders to action. https://lnkd.in/gJYpGAK7

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Surge in Misogynistic Narratives Post-Election (Excerpt) We explore the alarming uptick in derogatory narratives against women on platforms like X, TikTok, and Facebook following the recent election. Join our analysis of the impact on women's safety and online conversations. #MisogynyAwareness #OnlineHarassment #WomenSafety #SocialMediaTrends #ElectionImpact #ISDResearch #DigitalNarratives #GenderIssues #CampusSafety #EmpowerWomen

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Four years ago today, George Floyd's horrific murder catalyzed a global reckoning on #racialinjustice. While his tragedy sparked activism and commitments to change, we've since seen too many of those pledges revealed as empty rhetoric. From anti-#DEI backlash to the dismantling of #diversity initiatives, the fight for real #equity has faced daunting new obstacles. On this solemn day, Hold The PRess is renewing calls for true accountability and lasting change - especially in industries like #publicrelations and #communications that wield such influence over societal narratives. We honor #GeorgeFloyd's transformative legacy by persevering in our pursuit of racial justice, no matter the challenges. Today, I invite you all to take a moment of reflection to think about what role you play in our collective future.

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From INvolve - The Inclusion People: “For #Pride Month 2024, we spoke to three of our 2023 Outstanding Role Models who debunked some misconceptions and myths about #LGBTQ+ communities. Hear what they have to say here.” TRANSCRIPT: So for me, at least in my lived experience the last few years where I’ve had some increasingly visible leadership roles, it’s that well-meaning allies think I am open to unsolicited advice. Truth of the matter is, it has taken me 51 years to get to the place of authenticity, where I feel comfortable in my own skin, and when allies come forward and try to manage me for style, offering me points on how I dress, or how I speak or how I use social media or how visible I am … It’s not helpful. It’s actually debilitating. What we really want is support on substantive issues and opportunities where we can be present with our authentic selves. So if you are thinking that as a gay man, I’m interested in your advice on how to dress for success? I’m not. https://lnkd.in/gkThhK9p #mindfulness #balance #mentalhealth #wellbeing #meditation #legal #law #corporatelaw #lmamkt #lma24 #branding #digitalmarketing #AI #artificalintelligence #growth #professionalservices #legalmarketing #inclusion #community #lgbtqia #pride #allyship #diversity #equity #professionalservices

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I have a favor to request: If you have read my book, can you head over to Amazon and leave a review? It is a simple way to support my book in a big way! Thanks so much! #WorthitAndWonderful #HelpAnAuthorOut

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As Gender Equality Week approaches (Sep 22), midwives stand proudly as champions for gender equity, including in health care. Through commitment to gender-inclusive, client-centered, pro-choice care, and tireless advocacy for pay equity, #midwives are shaping a future where gender equity and reproductive justice become realities. #genderequity #reproductivejustice #genderequalityweek #payequity #genderpaygap

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With today being the last day of Disability Pride Month, I want to thank Nicole Schuman and PRNEWS for publishing my article on moving beyond tokenism to authentic representation of people with disabilities. "While Disability Pride Month is a great platform for raising awareness, it's crucial to move beyond tokenism and performative gestures. Tokenism happens when organizations make superficial efforts to include people with disabilities without making meaningful changes to their policies or practices. On the other hand, performative gestures are actions that seem supportive but lack substance and genuine commitment. To make a real difference, organizations need to focus on authentic representation, inclusive messaging and a long-term commitment to accessibility and inclusivity." Read the full article on PRNEWS: https://lnkd.in/gZ6HNqWZ #DisabilityPrideMonth #PR #PublicRelations #Communications #Inclusion #Accessibility #Diversity

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Rotary Club: Legacy of Service & Beacon for Future By GERMAN R. CAYABYAB, JR. Freelance Writer & PR Expert In a world fraught with challenges—ranging from poverty and illiteracy to environmental degradation and global health crises—the Rotary Club stands out as a remarkable organization that has consistently embodied the spirit of service above self. With a history spanning more than a century, Rotary International has transformed lives and communities around the globe, cementing its relevance and importance in today’s fast-changing landscape. Founded in 1905 in Chicago by Paul Harris, the Rotary Club began as a small group of professionals who shared a vision of fellowship and community service. From that modest start, Rotary has grown into an international organization with 1.4 million members in over 46,000 clubs across more than 200 countries. Its mission is rooted in addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues through collaborative problem-solving, innovative projects, and sustainable development initiatives. Key Contributions to Modern Society: 1. Eradication of Polio Rotary’s flagship initiative, PolioPlus, has played a pivotal role in the near eradication of polio worldwide. 2. Advancing Education and Literacy Rotary is deeply committed to improving global literacy and access to quality education. 3. Clean Water and Sanitation Access to clean water and proper sanitation remains a critical issue in many parts of the world. Rotary clubs have funded thousands of water and sanitation projects, reducing waterborne diseases and improving the quality of life for underserved communities. 4. Economic Development Through microfinance programs, vocational training, and mentorship, Rotary empowers individuals and communities to achieve economic self-sufficiency. 5. Disaster Relief and Peacebuilding Rotary’s commitment to peace and disaster relief is evident in its Rotary Peace Centers, which train future leaders in conflict resolution and humanitarian response. In an era of global interconnectedness and unprecedented challenges, Rotary’s contributions are more critical than ever. Here’s why: • A Global Network for Change Rotary’s extensive network of members allows it to mobilize resources, expertise, and manpower on an unparalleled scale. • Sustainability and Community Ownership Unlike many charitable organizations, Rotary focuses on sustainability. Its projects are designed to empower communities to take ownership, ensuring that the benefits last for generations. • Promoting Unity and Diversity Rotary fosters understanding and collaboration across borders, cultures, and beliefs. As we look to the future, Rotary continues to innovate and adapt. New initiatives, such as tackling climate change, addressing mental health, and harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence, demonstrate Rotary’s commitment to staying relevant and impactful.

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Today’s The New York Times OpEd by Eric Klinenberg is spot on and underscores the massive potential impact that mainstreaming heat wave naming across the world could have on saving lives and protecting health - especially for disproportionately affected groups like low-income and communities of color, women (especially when pregnant), children, elders, and people with existing health conditions. Klinenberg points out that naming heat waves is not a new idea. In 2021, I led an initiative that announced the intention to name and categorize heat waves, supported by California's Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara. In 2022 the first officially named heatwave in Seville, Spain arrived in July - heat wave Zoe - because of my team’s and our local partners' efforts. The naming convention in Spain was combined with a health-based heat wave ranking system. The evidence shows that health-based heat warnings are the most effective at reducing heat-related mortality. This system has been implemented and expanded across Greece and is now legislated in California and will soon be launched by CAL EPA, which could reach up to 39 million people. Fun fact: one in eight Americans live in California. Lastly, I am proud to have co-authored the first peer-reviewed journal article in Nature Scientific Reports that details the early evidence of positive changes in behavior because of the named heat event - in short, and while early, it shows the effectiveness of naming heat waves. Climate Resilience for All believes that naming heat waves is one of the biggest levers we have to convey the dangers and the steps people everywhere can take to protect themselves, their families, and employees. This is marketing, branding, mass communications, behavior change - and lots of science. Naming heat waves is one of the most scalable, easy-to-understand adaptation (and potentially life-saving) steps we can and should take. Jeff Goodell Rachel Kyte Leslie Johnston, M.Sc. Emma Howard Boyd CBE Selwin Hart Geraldine Henrich-Koenis Laurie Goering Larry Kalkstein Aaron Bernstein Amruta Nori-Sarma Peter Mitchell Aaron M. Kristen T. Louis Blumberg Jonathan Parfrey

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