The AMA NJ Diversity Pledge
The AMA DEI Pledge to Advance Social Justice, Racial Equity, and Anti-Racism
We believe marketing has the power to make a difference. As innovators, strategizers, ambassadors, and storytellers, we shape narratives that communicate value, create meaning, and establish societal norms.
As a chapter of the American Marketing Association and as marketers representing a diverse* set of people, industries, and disciplines:
- We commit to recruiting and retaining Black, Brown, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) representation* within our board of directors, leadership teams, volunteers, and membership.
- We commit to increasing Black, Brown, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) representation throughout our products and services, thought leadership, campaigns, programming, and distribution networks.
- We commit to building a pipeline of marketers that reflect the demographics of the populations we serve.
- We commit to partnering with organizations that value and have demonstrated their support to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- We commit to further educating ourselves as to the plight of racial and social injustice and will use our platform to facilitate courageous conversations that promote anti-bias and anti-racism within the marketing community.
- We commit to demonstrating how we are progressing toward our commitments to hold ourselves accountable and make continuous improvements.
*Diverse representation includes but is not limited to: race, ethnicity, religious preferences, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, abilities (seen or unseen), socio-economic status, language, and thought.
Frequently Asked Questions
Diversity: The presence of differences that may include race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, socioeconomic status, language, (dis)ability, age, religious commitment, or political perspective.
Equity: The fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups.
Inclusion: An outcome to ensure those that are diverse actually feel welcomed. An inclusive and welcoming climate embraces differences and offers respect in words and actions for all people.
BIPOC stands for Black, Brown, Indigenous, and People of Color.
DEI is the right thing to do for the betterment of humanity, but it is also a business priority for increasing innovation and revenue. Embracing diversity can enrich our lives both personally and professionally and is vital to the continued success of businesses and organizations.
Systemic racism and the events that have unfolded across America, particularly the unjust killing of George Floyd, have catalyzed an urgent reminder of the continued change needed in our society. As an organization committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the AMA acknowledges its responsibility and obligation to stand up for these ideals.
The AMA stands against all forms of oppression including racism, sexism, heterosexism, ableism, and many others. We are prioritizing racial equity to take on the root causes of society’s most challenging problems that will help pave the way for an equitable society for all.
No. A focus on racial equity is not based on the intent to create a ranking of oppressions or minimize the voices of the LGBTQ+ community, women, people with disabilities, or low-income households, to name a few. By focusing on race, we recognize that we have the ability to impact all communities.
We want to hear from you
Diversity, equity, and inclusion is a continuous journey of growth, understanding, and learning. One of our most important goals this year is to ensure that we put a stronger emphasis on our DEI efforts, and create an organization where no one feels they are unheard.
You are a valued member of this community and without you, we would not be the organization we are today. We invite you to share your feedback, comments, suggestions, ideas, and feelings. The power of your voice can help drive powerful change in our community.
