Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

As designers and brand experts, our work inherently shapes public perception. We have, therefore, a significant responsibility to be responsible and equitable with our work. We must not only be conscious of how our actions shape our world, but also take every opportunity to use design to change the systems around us to become just and equitable.

My commitment to justice and equity applies to all marginalized groups, without exception. This includes, but is never limited to, equity for those who have experienced discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, sexuality, sex or gender (including transgender and/or nonbinary identity), religion, language, education, weight, health, and physical or mental disability. I expect this priority to be shared by everyone I work with, whether as a coworker/contractor, or as a client.

Here are some specific ways that I commit to using my work towards the ends of universal justice and equity:

Client Value Alignment

From the day Aura Creative was founded, I have committed only to work with clients whose values and commitments align with my own. I have turned down work for this reason before, and will continue to do so, no matter the personal cost. I understand that we all, myself included, will always have more to learn about how we can better serve our community and world. That said, I expect that my clients will share a similar commitment to diversity and inclusion, as well as demonstrating a commitment to learning, evolving and implementing new practices when their understanding of how to best be inclusive changes.

Stock Photography and Model Selection

Where my work features people, whether in stock photography, in a photoshoot, or even in illustration, I commit to selecting models that represent genuine diversity. I am committed to ensuring that models are not tokenized, that (where applicable) representation is accurate, and that model selection never reinforces harmful stereotypes.

Client Advising

When I spot an opportunity for a client to be more inclusive in any area (whether it be a design or language choice), I will always discuss it with them, even if it’s awkward, and ensure that the design or copy are updated to be more inclusive. Where applicable and necessary, I will refer clients to sources that come directly from members of the applicable communities, and ensure that these experts are paid for their time or resources.

Accessible Design

I am committed to implementing best accessible design practices, regardless of whether or not this is a stated client priority, and continually learning more about what makes design most accessible. Among many other things, this includes prioritizing high-contrast colors, using sans-serif fonts for body copy and other important text, and putting alt text on website imagery.

Continued Learning

I am committed to continually learning both the history of inequality, and which actions will more effectively ensure equity in the future.