Diverse representation is an expectation, but as individuals no longer allow themselves to be defined in singular terms, there's mounting pressure on brands to understand and sensitively reflect how the intersections between race, gender, class, and ability impact people's everyday lives.

Today, audiences are shaping the cultural agenda. Empowered to speak up for the causes they believe in, people are actively calling out brands they see as inauthentic. What are the main drivers of this behavioural shift? And how can brands win the trust of these outspoken advocates?

Positive messages on attitides to diversity and inclusion can foster more inclusive behavior and enable marginalized members of the community to feel that they belong. As people demand anti-racist structural change, they're looking for initiatives that set positive standards for inclusion.

From BLM protests to corporate pledges, dedication to racial and social justice is mounting. But what does authentic change look like? Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Leigh Wilton, psychology professor at Skidmore College, to understand why companies should show, rather than say, what they’re doing.

Many workplaces are beginning to confront the societal structures that perpetuate systemic racism but it’s just the start of a long conversation. Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Robin DiAngelo, author ofWhite Fragility, to understand why it’s important to have uncomfortable discussions about race.

The events of 2020 have seen organisations across the world denounce systemic racism, but dismantling racial bias is complex and time-consuming work. Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Anatasia Kim to discuss the concept of allyship and how it can be fulfilled at an organisational level.