Taking a stand means more than “liking” and sharing or wearing a t-shirt, it means risk and sacrifice which is why the ADCOLOR 2019 conference was all about putting our words into action!
Fighting for what you truly believe in usually doesn’t come without consequence. You may be ostracized, ridiculed and quite possibly “cancelled.” However, ADCOLOR is about breaking the rules, knocking down walls and unapologetically standing your ground. The premier organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting professionals of color and diversity in the creative industries, hosted its largest annual conference to date. Entrepreneur and producer, Tai Beauchamp led the conference that featured over 17 sessions on five stages at the well known JW Marriot L.A. Live in Los Angeles, CA. Attendees were able to hear from leading advertising, tech and business executives, and personalities that are using their voice and platforms to jumpstart change within brands, media and entertainment.
Representation and honoring diversity have proven to be a challenging feat but through empowering gatherings such as ADCOLOR 2019, we have been making consistent strides. Allies have been able to drive change using their privilege and platforms to inspire, empower and employ as well. 2019 was a rollercoaster of a year with several gems that truly mattered and ADCOLOR strives to keep the positive change coming! Some of the more notable moments were Nike backing Colin Kaepernick, loan forgiveness for the Morehouse Class of 2019, Procter & Gamble taking on toxic masculinity and racial profiling, diversity in Congress and so much more! Celebrity guests, activists and pioneers including Ebro Darden, Angela Rye, Becky G, Kendrick Sampson and several others spoke on issues such as ending the cycle of disability bias, women of color in the workplace, gender identities in media, inclusion, activating allies and so much more.
Becky G, Singer, Songwriter and Actress;
Ashley Frangie, Podcast Creator, Se Regalan Dudas (Moderator)
Lety Sahagún, Podcast Creator, Se Regalan Dudas (Moderator)
JW Marriott, LA LIVE, Downtown LA on September 7, 2019 in LA. (Photo by Erika Kaplin/Margarita Corporan Photography)
This year’s theme, #TAKEASTAND was prevalent throughout the conference and not only through the incredible speakers. In addition, there were several activation booths provided by ADCOLOR sponsors such as Google, YouTube, Microsoft and several others. Attendees were able to take professional headshots, join the conversation about what they are personally doing to take a stand and what causes they believe in as well as writing a letter to your future self to remind yourself of all the power you contain within yourself.
The two-day conference was a place to get educated, ask questions and also network. Many attendees were able to find like minded individuals who were equally passionate about what cause they were taking a stand on. And while each attendee got to walk away with a gift bag full of motivational goodies, the bigger take away was knowing that we won’t stop “talking the talk and walking the walk.” ADCOLOR has given a space for people to celebrate making brave moves and inspiring more. This is the year of action, it’s our time to take a stand!
