Representation really does matter. Being able to see people who look like you portrayed as complex, nuanced human beings is monumental.

I only wish artists & companies wouldn’t pat themselves so hard on the back every time they did so. It’s nauseatingly self-congratulatory.

1/4

Just cast an Asian jock and move on. You don’t need a press release that reads, “We at ____ value inclusion, which is why we were so intentional in looking for someone who didn’t ‘fit the mold’ of what a football player looks like.”

You think THIS normalizes true diversity?

2/4

This is the equivalent of introducing your new friend Tim as “my black friend Tim.”

By calling attention to that, you are -

1.) Underlining his “difference.”

2.) Putting the spotlight on yourself for ‘having’ him as a friend.

3.) Ensuring he never feels truly welcome.

3/4

Flood the market with diverse casting choices. Tell different stories from unheard perspectives. It’s overdue.

But do it without press junkets and billboards and full-page ‘We Champion Diversity’ ads.

Because to truly normalize it, you need to stop congratulating yourself.

4/4