As a speakers bureau representing change-driving thought-leaders, we often let our speakers do the talking because they are the experts. That works in the sense of not misrepresenting those ideas that we do not fully understand and/or of which we do not have the expertise. "Provide the opportunity for those who deserve the platform and those messages will spread" is the framework within which we operate in our industry.

But we were horrified by the injustices we saw play out recently to the citizens of color in Minneapolis, in Louisville, and in Glynn County (and countless other places), and we continue to be frustrated and disturbed by the policies and rhetoric of an administration that does not match our morals. We didn’t name ourselves Outspoken Agency to be complicit and silent on the injustices that directly revoke those basic rights for our fellow human beings. And although we are a white-operated business, we are a women-owned agency that has committed ourselves to amplify the voices of others. Being silent would be the antithesis of our business name and model so let us be unfathomably clear: Black Lives Matter. Period.

One of our main goals at Outspoken Agency is to represent the underrepresented, and it is a constant work in progress. But there is one thing we know for sure—Black voices (and other communities of color) are grossly underrepresented in our industry and the time for sitting on the sidelines and showing passive support has since passed. So we’re putting this in writing now with an added zeal over what we’ve witnessed these past few weeks: We will be more actively focused on recruiting and representing more speakers of color.

To our speakers and our clients: Hold us accountable. Ask us in a month how many conversations with new diverse voices we’ve had. Suggest people who you would like to hear speak more or who finally deserve a platform. Tell us who is not being heard and should be. We will do our best to amplify their messages and support their causes and their work. Email tori@outspokenagency.com and she will ensure you’re heard.

We challenge our industry to do better with representation as well. Challenge your clients to diversify their speaker programming. Look inwardly at your roster and ensure you do not represent individuals who do not speak to our greater good as a society. Diversify your hiring practices. Know that your value goes well beyond the function of your business, and your position and power in connection with these individuals will no longer go unnoticed.

We will be doing our part. Will you?

In solidarity,

Team Outspoken

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