What You Should Know About Pinterest’s New Inclusion Advisory Council

Time will only tell if Pinterest’s new Inclusion Advisory Council is a success but for now, it’s certainly a step in the right direction. On Friday (December 11), the social platform announced its latest initiative, which aims to “bring influential voices together to guide the company on its journey to foster a culture where all can thrive and are valued for their unique perspectives.” The council will benefit from the partnership and guidance of the NAACP, as well as Joshua DuBois, founder of the social impact-focused firm Values Partnerships and former Director for the Obama presidential campaign—not too shabby.
“This moment of reckoning demands that all organizations not only affirm their commitment to continuing to build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture but to take the steps necessary to bring about progress,” said Yumeka Rushing, NAACP Chief Strategy Officer.
The Inclusion Advisory Council will meet regularly to review diversity goals, create policies that improve company culture, and make recommendations to promote and create more inclusive content. With the help of an organization like the NAACP, Pinterest will benefit from the expertise of people who not only prioritize underserved voices but can provide the much-needed perspective of an outsider too. Details are vague for now but ultimately, one hopes this will actually lead to significant opportunities for creators of color.
Additional outside organizations and/or experts will also be added to the council “based on their breadth of experience navigating key issues in underserved communities.” For now, the NAACP and DuBois will make up the council alongside dedicated Pinterest leaders, including CEO Ben Silbermann and Tyi McCray, Pinterest’s Global Head of Inclusion and Diversity.
This isn’t the only inclusion and diversity initiative on Pinterest’s plate. You can also check out the Pinterest Apprentice program and more here.
Subscribe to the BlogHer newsletter for more tactical advice, exclusive content, and timely event updates.