The Museum of Public Relations at Baruch College in New York City will kick-off the first-ever Black PR History Month February 9.
Black PR History Month is a partnership between the Museum and the National Black PR Society, and it aims to help diverse students and young professionals feel a greater connection to a field whose history has long been depicted as one dominated by white men.
Following the event, an exhibit featuring the lives of black PR professionals will be on display for one month at the Museum.
Admission is free and open to students and PR pros by reservation at www.prmuseum.org.
Shelley J. Spector, the Founder of the Museum of Public Relations told DIVERGE everything we need to know about the event:
Where did the idea for the first-ever Black PR History Month come from?
When Inez Kaiser died last August, I posted about it right away, and two students commented: “How come we never learned about her in school?” The other answered, “I guess we’ll have to do our own research if we ever want to learn about people who look like us.” That really got me thinking: How come our students never learn about Inez– the first black woman to open a PR firm– or any of the other outstanding African Americans who’ve been so important, not only to our field but to society? Why are there no black people mentioned in our textbooks, or generally known in the field today? For every Ivy Lee, there should be an Ofield Dukes in the curriculum.
So we decided to do something about that, and honor them, for the first time, during a month-long celebration of Black PR History.
What can people expect at the museum?
At the Museum, people can see artifacts, documents, photos, oral histories and old newspapers documenting the history of the PR field. The Museum also demonstrates just how public relations itself has shaped history in civil rights, political freedom, women’s suffrage, and even the founding of this country.
Why is it important for students to learn about these pioneers?
All young people need professional role models. Unfortunately, our black students have not had them, causing many to feel like they don’t “fit in” with the rest of the PR community. This event and exhibit will showcase for the first time multiple PR pioneers who will no doubt inspire our young people, and hopefully, give them a greater sense that the PR field is right for them.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are free. Just make sure you RSVP at prmuseum.org!
Reasons to attend?
The event will provide many opportunities for young people to network, make new connections and possibly even find new professional opportunities. Every PR organization will be represented there to talk about their diversity initiatives and the services they are providing free to students and young professionals, to help them succeed and to thrive in the PR field.
