Not Another Diversity Panel

Six tips to avoiding the typical diversity panel

As we close out black history month, it’s important that we reflect on the great things in our history and learn from others. Let’s make our predecessors proud by finally evolving the same conversation we’ve been having for decades. Here are a few small ways that companies, panelists, and attendees can make diversity panels a better experience for everyone.

Open up the Invitation

At your next event, make it clear that your panel is for diverse communities as well as their allies. You wouldn’t teach Photoshop 101 to a room full of senior art directors. So, there’s no need to explain diversity to people who have been the face of diversity their whole lives. After all, a diverse audience is just as important as having a diverse panel. 

Bring an Ally  

The success of an event isn’t solely upon the organization throwing it. Next time you’re headed to a diversity panel, try inviting a friend who isn’t a part of the group being discussed. The more we know, the more we grow. And when you’re with friends it’s easier to grow together.   

"People are often very much able to hear the truth. They may not take it well, but nobody dies from honesty.”  

Ask the Tough Questions

Our circumstances can’t evolve if our conversations don’t. To the moderators, it’s time for you to get in there and stir the pot. If the type of answer you expect to get isn’t worth tweeting, then the question may not be worth asking.

To the panelists, offer a few questions or thought starters to moderators prior to the event. This is a great way to spark conversation that will help better convey your truth. 

To audience members, don’t be afraid to ask the question that is burning inside of you. Be thought-provoking yet respectful. 

As the hilarious actress, Jenifer Lewis, stated in her recent memoir, “People are often very much able to hear the truth. They may not take it well, but nobody dies from honesty.”

Be the Ally

It’s easy for us to get so caught up in our own struggle that we forget about everyone else’s. If you already go to events that shed light on other groups, bravo! If not, there’s still time. By exposing yourself to a different narrative, you’ll start to undo your own unconscious biases.

Shift Expectations

Be intentional about what you hope to gain from a diversity panel. No single panel is going to change the world. The panels that do move us can only move us within reason – and that’s ok. By properly setting our expectations, we’re able to focus on information that can really help us make the right next step instead of solutions that are not yet within reach.  

Remember the Reason for the Season 

A diversity panel isn’t about checking a box. The more backgrounds, experiences and points of views shared, the more interesting it becomes. The same is true for our work in the advertising industry.

The bad news is most industries haven’t gotten this diversity thing right either. The good news is we still have the chance to lead the way and be the industry other industries talk about. It’s time we walk the talk for a better, more innovative, and much more interesting tomorrow. Now…who’s in?