Nicole Sagullo
Aug 8, 2017 · 1 min read

Thank you for your response!

I agree many companies tout social responsibility without walking the walk, especially when it comes to diversity in gender, age, sexual orientation, etc. For example, how many companies supported PRIDE but don’t have any LGBT employees? How many companies tout diversity or feminism, yet their board of directors is comprised of 99% white males?

I agree institutionalized racism and historical sexism prevails and that companies need to be held responsible. However, I don’t find these advertisements to be “bait-and-switch.” We make purchases based on costs, convenience, brand awareness, and brand perception.

Purchases are absolutely not a litmus test for how feminist someone is, or where they stand on any political topic. While TOMS brand gives back to communities in need, buying TOMS does not automatically mean you are a charitable person. Maybe they’re comfortable? Or they’re trendy? Maybe the TOMS store was a convenient stop while a consumer was out shopping? There are so many factors in a purchase outside of the brand’s political stances, and while branding may be a factor in the decision, a brand ≠ the company.

    Nicole Sagullo

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    Ad nerd. Constantly learning. Fueled by curiosity and coffee.