Sunday 16 March 2025 12:49 GMT

PRSA: DEI Is Not A Passing Trend


(MENAFN- PRovoke) NEW YORK - With DEI under heightened scrutiny, PRSA is reaffirming its commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the communications industry, stating that“DEI is not a passing trend - it is fundamental to the future of public relations, business, and society.”

In an open letter signed by the organization's executive committee, PRSA chair Ray Day addressed a key question from members:“What does diversity, equity, and inclusion mean to PRSA in the current landscape? The answer is simple - DEI is who we are, and it is core to PRSA's values.”

Calling PRSA“a reflection of the industry we strive to shape,” Day made clear that rather than bowing to external pressure to scale back DEI efforts, the organization will focus on equipping its members, partners, and the next generation of PR professionals with the resources they need to thrive.

He underscored DEI's business value, citing McKinsey research showing that companies in the top quartile for ethnic and gender diversity are significantly more likely to outperform their peers financially. Yet, he noted, the PR industry still lags in representation, with professionals from underrepresented communities facing systemic barriers to advancement. The 2023 Diversity Action Alliance Report found that while 25% of entry-level PR professionals are people of color, only 14% hold senior executive roles.“These statistics underscore why our work matters now more than ever,” he wrote.

PRSA pledged to continue providing resources, elevating diverse voices, and supporting members-especially in states where DEI efforts face legal and political challenges.

“We recognize that some of our PRSA and PRSSA chapters operate in states where DEI policies are under attack. To our colleagues and students in these regions, we see you, we support you, and we will provide the tools and guidance necessary to navigate these challenges-while staying true to the principles of fairness, representation, and inclusion,” the letter stated.

Day emphasized that PRSA is not reacting to trends but leading the charge:“Our organization, our mission, and our values remain unchanged because the work we do is far from over.” He added that PRSA will soon roll out additional DEI resources to help members integrate these principles into their work and professional development.

“We encourage you to join our mission, engage in conversations, and advocate for a profession that welcomes and uplifts all voices,” he said.“The power of PR lies in our ability to inform, inspire, and ignite change. Together, we can ensure that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just ideals we aspire to but principles we live by.”

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