Diversity & Inclusion

A lack of diversity persists in public relations and allied fields. That is a persistent, systemic, and heart-breaking problem. But here at PRSA Cincinnati Chapter, we also see that as an opportunity.

We have written diversity into our strategic plan, have empowered a diversity committee, and are prioritizimg diversity in our leadership, programming, and member resources. You will find some of those resources on this page. If there are other resources you would find helpful, or if you want to join the conversation, reach out. We would love to hear from you!

For more information on PRSA Cincinnati Chapters Diversity & Inclusion initiatives, contact Diversity Director Suzanne Boys, APR. For additional PRSA diversity-related resources, see the National PRSA Diversity & Inclusion page.

Other Information on this page:

Diversity-Related Statements

Diversity & Inclusion Educational Resources

Diversity-Related PR Visions Blog Posts

PRSA Diversity & Inclusion Statement

The diversity committee at the PRSA National national organization has published the following diversity statement to help us offer context and to frame our diversity-related efforts:

Diversity and inclusion are integral to the evolution and growth of PRSA and the public relations industry.

The most obvious contexts of diversity include race, ethnicity, religion, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, country of origin, culture and diversity of thought. However, in a rapidly changing society, diversity continues to evolve and can include class, socioeconomic status, life experiences, learning and working styles, personality types and intellectual traditions and perspectives, in addition to cultural, political, religious and other beliefs.

These defining attributes impact how we approach our work, connect with others and move through the world.

Inclusion, according to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), is defined as “the achievement of a work environment in which all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully to the organization’s success.”

Inclusion is not just about having that “seat at the table” but is about ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and fully considered.

Diversity and inclusion are proactive behaviors.

Respecting, embracing, celebrating and validating those behaviors are integral to PRSA’s DNA. Diversity and inclusion are vital to the success of our profession, our members and the communities in which we live and work. It is essential and is our responsibility as members of the Society to carry this forward.

A Statement from the National PRSA Chair and Chair-elect on Racial Justice and an Equitable Future

Yesterday’s verdict in Minneapolis was a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, the impact of which will be felt across this country – and indeed the world – for a long time. This was an overdue first step toward racial justice, but the road is long and we must continue to be agents of change.

For the past year so many of you have raised your voices and become advocates in your communities, at the organizations where you work, and with those whom you advise. We appreciate your steadfastness in representing our profession through the expert guidance and counsel you provide, day in and day out, and for finding the right words to say when words didn’t seem like they would ever be enough.

The work of building a just and equitable future falls on everyone and meaningful reforms won’t happen overnight. As strategists and communicators, we are uniquely skilled to help shape that future and make positive change possible. And we’ll do it together.

Michelle Olson, APR - 2021 PRSA Chair
Felicia Blow, APR, PhD - PRSA Chair-elect

PRSA Cincinnati Chapter Statement in Support of the Asian American/Pacific Islander Community

Cincinnati PRSA offers its deepest condolences to those impacted by recent violence against the AAPI community in the United States. In the wake of this heart-breaking increase of xenophobia and violence, we raise our voices to condemn any form of racism against Asians and Pacific Islanders. As a community of Public Relations professionals, it is imperative that we stand with the AAPI community, listen to and support the voices of those who are vulnerable, and amplify the message that racism and violence are unacceptable.

For more on the surge in racism against the AAPI community and what we can do to combat it, see our blog post from April 2020, Cultural Sensitivity in a time of COVID-19.

A Note on 2020 Events

Cincinnati PRSA joins our national and regional bodies in condemning the brutal killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and the systemic racism that has fueled and weakened our country. 

The only way to move toward a solution is to acknowledge that we too, are a part of the problem. It is our turn to take a knee, listen and amplify our voices on how to evoke change in America.

We must live out the truth that black lives matter.

Please also see the following:

• Complete Cincinnati PRSA Statement from Diversity Director Suzanne Boys

• PRSA East Central District statement

• PRSA National Statement

See the following diversity and inclusion-related educational resources: