February's Letter From Denise

February 2025

Well, hello there! We are back.

At the team’s encouragement, Herd Strategies decided to take a few weeks off from social media to recharge and refresh, and boy, am I glad we did.

During our break, we re-evaluated our look, brainstormed new ideas and took time to think through some of the stories we want to tell during 2025. We agreed to return online for Black History Month when we took our break.

Who knew that during our hiatus, Black History Month and other initiatives focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion would face such intense scrutiny, teetering on extinction? Black History Month is a time when, as Tupac said, “All Eyes on Me," allowing us to pause, reflect, and honor the contributions of Black voices throughout history and in contemporary times. This is precisely what Herd Strategies plans to do—this month and beyond.

Ironically, as we watched leaders dismantle DEI weeks ago, the Herd had already begun shaping our voice for February and created a theme highlighting Black Visionaries, which we fittingly call “The Intersection of Culture and Communication.” As many know, Black innovators have been at the forefront of shaping advertising and communication. Black creators have continually redefined boundaries while merging culture with storytelling, from the groundbreaking “Mars and Mike” Air Jordan campaign to today’s bold and unapologetic Nike ads. Their work challenges norms while celebrating authenticity, leaving an indelible mark on how messages are crafted and delivered.

The significance of our theme extends beyond merely showcasing Black history in advertising. Communication and diversity encompass more than words—they reflect connection, representation, and impact. Black voices have demonstrated how storytelling can express identity, enrich culture, and influence generations. These contributions remind us that authenticity and representation are not simply trends but are essential pillars of impactful communication.

Throughout this month, we will share stories highlighting the compelling intersection of Black Culture and communication. Let’s celebrate the voices that have forged a more inclusive future together and fight to ensure we remain connected through the tests of time.

Signing off,

Denise

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