Why advertising needs to step up inclusion of people with disabilities

Advertisers are falling short when it comes to representing people with disabilities, and are thus missing out on revenue opportunities as well as ignoring a large, diverse community.

Storm Smith, a producer at BBDO Los Angeles, understands the importance – and widespread failings – of inclusivity in advertising.

As a Black woman, she works in an industry that has traditionally been managed by male, non-Hispanic Caucasians who have not adjusted their talent mix to reflect society as a whole.

As a deaf person, Smith fits into a community of people who, as described by the non-profit Center for Disability Rights, have disabilities that are “invisible” to others – a list that spans everything from arthritis, autism and bipolar disorder to learning differences, mental health disabilities, prosthetics and sleep...

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