Media contributions
1Media contributions
Title Brands are speaking up on Black Lives Matter. But are they taking action behind the scenes? Degree of recognition International Media name/outlet ABC Media type Web Country/Territory Australia Date 13/06/20 Description Macquarie University's Abas Mirzaei says that often a brand's response is more of a business decision — they react to consumer expectations.
"Brands are attention-seekers," he told The Drum.
Dr Mirzaei says the issue needs to exist first for a brand to jump on board.
"If the issue has got social currency, then it will have legs to fly, and be noticed."
Nike is perhaps one of the best known for taking this well-calculated risk.
With his actions, he became a new symbol of the civil rights movement and controversy surrounded him well before the ad's release. It quickly went viral.
"That campaign was the most talked about woke campaign as of today," Dr Mirzaei said.
Despite a boycott, Nike's share value went up. It is thought Kaepernick's appearance netted the company billions.
Why being authentic means more than an Instagram post
Speaking up doesn't mean much if you're not authentic, notes Dr Mirzaei.
"A key part of 'woke' authenticity is the level of financial sacrifice," he told The Drum.Producer/Author Elly Duncan URL https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-06-13/brands-on-black-lives-matter/12344476 Persons Abas Mirzaei