Why the new rules
?
Things changed in 2020 — there’s no going back to the old way of approaching social responsibility as a siloed PR play that doesn’t transcend into your organizational impact
I’ve been living and working since 2016 in Waterloo Region, and my expertise in communications and social justice led me to working on corporate social responsibility, philanthropy, community involvement and more with local startups since 2017. When everything locked down in March 2020, I realized that as the world changes, businesses and consumers are changing, too.
We’re seeing clearly now how we aren’t ‘all in this together’. I work to cut through the noise and help organizations build and strategize for these realities and demands.
It’s all social responsibility
Representation
A diverse team is a better team, but vulnerable people don’t exist to check a box— lived experiences and perspectives must be regarded as expertise and given autonomy and leadership opportunities.
Product, services
Creating an inclusive organization doesn’t stop at recruiting and culture— what impact is your organization making on the world? Who is included and excluded from your audience? How are you testing diverse use cases? Make your product the best it can be.
Culture, respect
Create an environment where everyone feels safe and can be their best. Onboarding, salary transparency, professional development, employee resource groups and other strategies can help.
Sustainability
We can’t forget about the urgent threat climate change poses on us. Climate change will disproportionately affect racialized countries and the global South. It means respect for Indigenous traditional knowledge and land, beyond a simple declaration.
Sourcing, policies
The way you source your work has ethical, environmental, economic and regional impacts. Make sure you have robust anti-harassment, parental leave, equity policies in place before you need them.
Accessibility, spaces
Accessibility goes beyond AODA. How are you understanding the way people’s bodies can be harmed by systemic oppression? Inaccessible spaces, healthy remote work expectations, mental health and disabilities, medical racism, accommodations and more.
Communications
Both internal and external communication needs to be purposeful and inclusive. All channels matter, be it traditional materials to digital communication, social media and engagement, storytelling and branding.
Partners, community
Are you having trouble connecting with those already doing the work in your community? Do you want to make sure your organization leaves a positive impression and impact? Partnerships allow for building community bridges through public service.