DEI in Media
The Recipe for Stories That Actually Connect
Diverse voices in advertising and film aren't a checkbox. They're the reason stories connect, resonate, and move audiences to act. When DEI in media is treated as a strategic advantage instead of a seasonal obligation, the work gets better — measurably.
As a Black creative, working in advertising, entertainment, and photography has taught me one thing: opportunity doesn't always feel equal. And the shape of that inequality shows up in the work itself.
Three Scenarios Every Marginalized Creative Knows
I've spent years navigating corporate creative spaces as a creative director, photojournalist, and commercial photographer. These roles can be exciting and lucrative. They also come with patterns that go beyond the work.
Here are three scenarios I've seen repeat across a decade:
The Standard Route. I apply, interview, and get the job. Clean and merit-based. The dream.
The Seasonal Need. A cold call for protest coverage, Black History Month, Juneteenth, or MLK Day pitches — followed by ghosting after I've put real time into the work.
The Dream Match. Hired specifically for my style and vision. A producer, creative director, or editor who already knows the work aligns schedules to make it happen. That's when the magic shows up.
When the Phone Only Rings for Cultural Trauma
Most people apply through the traditional route. When the job lands, great — pop a bottle. But for people in marginalized communities — Black, Latinx, Asian, women, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities — there's always the question of what other biases shaped the decision.
When the phone only rings for culturally traumatic events or seasonal needs, it doesn't feel like we're being valued. It feels like we're a commodity. It doesn't feel authentic, and it's not sustainable for the artist. It also produces flatter, less resonant work.
Why Representation in Advertising Produces Better Work
When an artist is hired for their unique style and perspective, the output reaches a larger, more engaged audience. Diverse voices bridge gaps, tell richer stories, and connect audiences through shared humanity instead of shared stereotypes.
That's the business case for DEI in media: more voices create more narratives, and more narratives create more points of connection. Inclusive storytelling isn't soft strategy — it's how you build brand affinity that outlasts a campaign cycle.
The Climb Just Got Steeper
It's been an uphill battle for marginalized creatives for a long time. The hill just got steeper. But the air at the summit tastes sweeter because of the climb — and the view is worth what it costs to get there.
Onward.
Work with Black Shutter Productions
Black Shutter Productions is a NYC-based video production company built around cultural fluency and creative leadership. If you're looking for brand films and documentary work made with genuine perspective, start a conversation with us.
