11/23/2019

Continuing Conversations on Race

Constructive dialogue on important issues is a critical step in creating solutions that improve life in communities around the world. As a leading corporate citizen and one of the world’s largest advertisers, we are in a unique position to be a catalyst for conversation on a variety of topics ranging from equality to environmental sustainability.

Our recent short film, The Look, addresses racial bias in America. Through the lens of an African American man, it illustrates the small, sometimes unconscious acts of fear, dismissal, surprise or disdain endured by people who are perceived as different. You can read more about why and how the film was created here.

Bias is something we all have, and something we all experience. However, some groups are disproportionately affected by bias – both individually and in major institutions (educational, health care, criminal justice). Our hope is to deepen understanding of these issues and to spark a constructive dialogue that fosters solutions.

Beyond creating the film, and an informational website that provides context for each of the scenes in the film, we’re initiating a wide range of conversations that takes people deeper into the issue and shares a variety of perspectives. Among them, Let’s Bridge: A Beloved Community Talk hosted by Dr. Bernice King and the King Center and Be a Catalyst for Change, a discussion hosted by John Legend. We’ve also created Harmonize, a podcast in partnership with Spotify that highlights the intersection of race, music and culture.

Our intent is to raise awareness, spark conversation and enable changes in hearts and minds. We want to foster empathy for a variety of individual experiences and create forums where multiple perspectives can be shared (search the hashtag #TalkAboutBias). We recognize and respect the many different views on the topic and welcome constructive and respectful dialogue.

Efforts like this are an important part of how we serve consumers and create an inclusive environment for all P&G employees. It’s also important for society. Bias, whether based in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual identity, ability, religion or age, continues to negatively impact people in the communities we serve – and we are taking this opportunity to address it.

A black man's face