Unity and inclusion might sound like old news, but here’s the twist: today, they’ve never been more relevant. With people feeling fatigued by division, there’s a growing hunger for connection—something real, human, and hopeful.

This isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about evolving what inclusion means by focusing on our shared humanity and common dreams. Brands have an incredible opportunity to rise above the noise to bring people together. And here’s the proof: according to Kantar research, 75% of consumers say they’re more likely to support companies committed to inclusion. That’s not just a statistic; it’s a call to action. It’s time to build relationships fueled by empathy and designed to resonate with diverse audiences.

How Brands Can Lead the Way

1. Craft Messaging That Unites

Create campaigns that spotlight what connects us—family, ambition, or the simple joy of shared experiences. These moments are what people remember. One of the best examples of this is Dove’s ongoing Real Beauty campaign that challenges long-held beauty standards and advocates for a healthier self-image among women. This campaign inspires confidence, and its ongoing empowering messaging creates loyalty and positive sentiment around the brand.

2. Design for Everyone

Accessibility is emerging as an important touchstone for brands. Think adaptive product designs, inclusive packaging, or creative that authentically reflects the world we live in. Tommy Hilfiger and Skims have both launched collections with features like magnetic buttons and sensor-friendly fabrics and Lego Friends sets include characters with Down’s syndrome, limb differences, and vitiligo.

3. Build Real Community

A successful brand community has a magnetism that transcends the product or service. Sponsor events, launch initiatives, or partner with organizations that align with your mission to foster genuine human connections. When we think of brand communities, we immediately think of those brands that tap into a particular passion such as beauty enthusiasts at Sephora (and its incredible consumer event, Sephoria), Harley Davidson’s Owners Club, or even Sony’s Play Station Plus which offers premium features such as early access to games, discounts, and community forums.

4. Start from Within

Inclusion isn’t a strategy—it’s a culture. When your own team feels valued and seen, that energy becomes part of your brand’s DNA. At Inspira, we go the extra mile to ensure we’re building an inclusive culture. Unlike other agencies or companies that have pivoted away from DE&I policies, we’ve doubled down on ours to ensure that everyone feels represented and valued. Beyond our Equity Alliance we offer Employee Resource Groups and Employee Affinity Groups to bring people together based on shared backgrounds and interests and are proud to be named to Best Companies Group and Color magazine’s Inclusive Workplace list for two consecutive years.

5. Learn Humility and Humor

Whether it’s a customer complaint or a comment that needs a response, lead with humility and (sometimes) humor. People know when it’s genuine, and that’s what keeps them coming back. California Pizza Kitchen went viral on TikTok after a customer complained that she ordered macaroni and cheese, but only received a container of cheese…with no mac! The brand immediately responded by sending the customer a care package of pasta noodles – no cheese – and certificates for free mac and cheese and pizza for a year. The restaurant chain also shared a hilarious video of the brands’ culinary director demonstrating the proper steps for making mac and cheese (don’t “forget” to add the mac to the cheese!) and offered all guests 50% off all mac and cheese dishes at the restaurant chain throughout the month. This demonstrates the power of humility and humor when making amends for a less than stellar customer experience.

6. Authentically Honor Cultural Moments and Movements

Honoring cultural moments is about much more than a calendar reminder. To authentically honor cultural touchpoints, they should align with both your brand and audience values. Brands like Patagonia, Subaru, and Nike do this with a real understanding of why they matter. Authenticity is the cornerstone of effective brand-consumer relationships. When brands authentically engage with cultural moments, they demonstrate their understanding of and respect for their audience’s values and experiences. This authenticity fosters genuine connections that go beyond transactional interactions, leading to lasting brand affinity.

This is a moment for brands to do more than just show up. It’s about showing up with purpose, creating a sense of belonging that turns customers into advocates and communities into movements. Unity and inclusion aren’t just ideas—they’re the path forward.

Ready to build a community where everyone feels they belong? Let’s talk about how inclusivity can elevate your brand and foster meaningful connections. Contact us today.

Sources:

1. Kantar | Inclusive marketing boosts self-expression and brand growth