Cultural trends

The Weaponization of the “DEI Hire”: How the Term Undermines Black and POC Professionals

Over the past decade, corporate America has embraced Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives to address systemic inequities and create more inclusive workplaces. These efforts have been widely celebrated but have also sparked backlash, particularly through the “DEI hire” notion. ... Read More

Cultural trends

Sustainability and Black Consumers: A Growing Demand for Ethical Choices

Climate change and environmental degradation dominate the global discourse, transitioning sustainability from a niche concern to a mainstream priority across various demographics. Within this shift lies a critical, yet often underrepresented, demographic: Black consumers. Their growing emphasis on sustainability reflects... Read More

Cultural trends

Afrobeats Ascendency: The Rise of Nigerian Music in America and Beyond

While most of the news about music in America in recent years has been caught in an endless loop of Swifties and the Beyhive (understandably so), another musical phenomenon has been carving out a place of its own in the... Read More

Cultural trends

Leveraging Social Media Platforms to Engage Black Voters

In the modern political campaign landscape, reaching diverse voter bases has never been more critical. Among the most pivotal demographics are Black voters, whose voices and votes have the power to shape elections significantly.  As traditional media consumption shifts and... Read More

Cultural trends

Why Nike, Adidas, and Reebok Are Losing Their Grip on Minority Consumers

While trends and must-have lists have run their courses many times over in fashion, brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok have long been dominant forces. Their logos are iconic, their products are staples in closets around the globe, and their... Read More

Cultural trends

How Obama Used Marketing to Capture Millennials

In political marketing, few figures have captured the vibe of an era like Barack Obama. His rise to prominence wasn’t just a political triumph; it was a masterclass in modern marketing, particularly in his appeal to Millennials.  How did a... Read More

Cultural trends

How Ancient Global Beauty Rituals Have Influenced Modern Trends

Thanks to technology and the (slow-moving) evolution away from Eurocentric beauty standards, the allure of traditional global beauty rituals has never been more potent. Today’s beauty trends owe much to the ancient practices of diverse cultures, which, with the help... Read More

Cultural trends

Why Minority Athletes Are Powerhouses of Influence in the Branding World

There has probably never been a moment when the intersection of sports, culture, and commerce has been more pronounced. Minority athletes have transcended their roles as sports figures to become wildly influential brand ambassadors, shaping consumer behaviors and driving significant... Read More

Cultural trends

Zendaya, Issa, and Ayo: Black Women Are The New Power Players in Hollywood

In Hollywood's glittering universe, a new generation of Black women is rewriting the rules, redefining success, and shaping the future of entertainment. Led by formidable figures such as Zendaya, Issa Rae, and Ayo Edebiri, this dynamic wave of talent is... Read More

Cultural trends

The Challenge of AI and Culture: Racial and Cultural Profiling and Its Impact on Minorities 

While artificial intelligence (AI) is already making our lives a little easier (notice how apps for grocery delivery now offer up suggested recipes based on what’s already in your cart?), the excitement of it all has been shot through with... Read More

Cultural trends

A Look Inside the Digital Fashion Fandom of Young Asian Americans 

Digital culture is constantly evolving on every level, and young Asian Americans have emerged as a dynamic and influential group in the fashion space, especially in the luxury fashion sector. Asian Americans are not only consumers but also trendsetters and... Read More

Cultural trends

6 Brands Driving Social Change and Capturing Younger Consumers

Brands are no longer content with just selling products. The brands on the top of the must-have lists of consumers– especially younger consumers, all have a compelling story that connects with their audiences. And for many brands, that story has... Read More