JinJa Birkenbeuel Publishes in Campaign Magazine FIrst Op-Ed “Where are all the Black-owned creative agencies?”

[Full article originally appeared in Campaign USA. Read the full Op-Ed here.]

Can you name at least three Black people who hold prominent roles at any of the world’s top branding, advertising or design agencies? No?

That’s because a key benchmark for entry into most is not talent; it’s being white.

I’m not suggesting white creatives aren't talented. I’m acknowledging that white leaders dominate the field. And, although it’s kept quiet, they convene privately to talk business — on the golf course, at poker games and more. Black people aren’t typically part of that network.

Agencies often use Black faces to tell stories, but do their leaders employ any full-time Black designers, owners, partners or thought leaders? If not, their creative solutions may as well be traveling exhibitions or modern-day minstrel shows. Many white-led agencies and clients offer pro bono services to nonprofits aiding Black Lives, but don’t have any Black people on their boards. Read the rest of the article here.