Uncovering Isolation: Simple Ways for PRSSA Chapters to Support BIPOC Members’ Mental Health
Written for BIPOC Mental Health Month
The rise of mentorship programs, employee resource groups, productive discourse, and research devoted to public relations professionals who identify as black, indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC) indicates that the PR industry is steadily becoming more inclusive. However, as we continue to create resources for BIPOC working professionals, we must not overlook their collegiate counterparts. BIPOC PR students in higher education can experience feelings of isolation when they don’t receive support that accounts for their unique experiences, especially while preparing to enter a field where they are the historic minority. Isolation can lead to anxiety, loneliness and low morale. There are simple and effective ways to take action at the local level. We can take small steps within PRSSA Chapters to establish a culture that supports BIPOC members and their mental health.
Invite Diverse Guest Lecturers
Representation is essential for the mental health and career growth of professionals from any marginalized background in any field — it is no different in public relations. BIPOC PR students should be able to envision themselves thriving as working professionals by meeting industry leaders who look like them. PRSSA Chapters can create opportunities for such interactions by hosting guest speakers that reflect the demographics of their entire community. Members will not only feel seen and heard, but also have the chance to connect with mentors who have shared experiences with them. Chapters can go the extra mile by hosting panels that facilitate conversations about the BIPOC experience in the public relations space.
Appoint a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director on the Executive Board
Establishing an executive board position dedicated to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) ensures that someone is always looking out for the needs of BIPOC members. DEI Directors not only serve as a point of contact for members to share their ideas and concerns, but also facilitate educational opportunities for the Chapter as a whole. The DEI Director’s responsibilities may include creating social media posts highlighting DEI-related holidays and heritage months, sharing specialized scholarship and grant opportunities, and collaborating with on-campus organizations that have similar DEI missions.
Host Educational Workshops
One of the best ways to foster a supportive environment within PRSSA Chapters for BIPOC students is to encourage social awareness through education. Hosting workshops is a great way to get all members engaged and involved in the Chapter’s DEI efforts. Workshops can be centered around various topics, such as inclusive language in copywriting and cultural appreciation in PR campaigns. Guided activities can be integrated into the programming, allowing members to get hands-on practice applying their newfound knowledge. A workshop’s interactive nature makes it the perfect platform for members to share perspectives that spark eye-opening conversations
Kaylee Louima is the incoming President of the University of Delaware’s PRSSA Chapter. She is a junior communication major, concentrating in public relations, with double minors in fashion and event management. Originally from New York City, she has a driven mindset and a deep appreciation for culture as a result of her dynamic upbringing. Along with leading her PRSSA Chapter, Kaylee serves as a social media ambassador and a diversity enrichment leader at school. She has ample experience in social media and influencer relations through internships, volunteering, and entrepreneurial experiences. In her free time, you can catch Kaylee continuing her pursuit of discovering the best cup of iced chai or exploring the ins and outs of a new city. She loves to connect with her fellow PR pros — feel free to say hi on LinkedIn.
