Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

'What's Happened at The Richards Group Sends a Message to All Agency Executives'

As founder's racial comment leads to client exits, diversity advocates say it's time for reflection, action and accountability

richards-group-lessons-2020 — Stan Richards poses in front of his building in a 2016 photo. Richards says he 'misspoke and commented using words I greatly regret' in calling a campaign 'too Black.'Via The Richards Group on Facebook

October 14, 2020

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By the time The Richards Group founder Stan Richards had publicly apologized for calling a campaign idea “too Black,” the damage had been done. The staff had reportedly been incensed by leadership’s sluggish response, and longtime client Motel 6—for whom the campaign at issue was pitched—had chosen to fire the agency.

David Griner

David Griner is Adweek's international editor and host of the Adweek podcast, "Yeah, That's Probably an Ad."

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

'What's Happened at The Richards Group Sends a Message to All Agency Executives'

As founder's racial comment leads to client exits, diversity advocates say it's time for reflection, action and accountability

David Griner

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David Griner