Key Takeaways
– Brands must approach 9/11 memorial posts with sensitivity and respect.
– Some brands with personal connections to 9/11 have appropriate responses, such as donations or memorials.
– It is acceptable for brands to stay quiet about 9/11 if it does not have personal meaning to their audience or affect their business.
– If a brand decides to make a public commemoration, they should be kind, empathetic, and considerate.
– 9/11 is a day of remembrance and not an opportunity for profit or brand-building.
Brands and 9/11 Memorial Posts
The 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., were tragic events that shook the United States and the world. As the 21st anniversary of this devastating event approaches, many people and brands are considering whether or not to post about it on social media. However, brands must approach this topic with sensitivity and respect.
In the past, some brands have made mistakes when it comes to 9/11 memorial posts. They have inserted their logos into tribute images or made insensitive promotions, using the event as an opportunity to sell or gain brand share. These actions have been met with backlash and criticism, as they are seen as exploiting a tragedy for personal gain.
On the other hand, some organizations have profound connections to 9/11 and have appropriate responses. Cantor Fitzgerald, a financial services firm, lost 658 employees in the attacks. Every year, the company donates 100% of its global revenues on September 11th to charitable causes. American Airlines and United Airlines, the two airlines whose planes were hijacked on that fateful day, have also taken steps to remember and honor the victims. American Airlines created a memorial garden at its headquarters, while United Airlines established a scholarship fund for the children of the victims.
It is important for brands to consider their personal connections to 9/11 before deciding whether or not to make a public commemoration. If the event does not have personal meaning to their audience or affect their business, it may be more appropriate for them to stay quiet. It is better to be respectful and silent than to risk causing offense or appearing opportunistic.
For brands that do decide to make a public commemoration, it is crucial to approach it with kindness, empathy, and consideration. The focus should be on remembering and honoring the victims, rather than promoting the brand. This can be done through thoughtful and heartfelt messages, sharing stories of resilience and unity, or making donations to relevant charities or organizations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 9/11 is a day of remembrance and not an opportunity for profit or brand-building. Brands must approach 9/11 memorial posts with sensitivity and respect. It is important to consider personal connections to the event and whether or not it has meaning to the audience or affects the business. If a brand decides to make a public commemoration, it should be done with kindness, empathy, and consideration. The focus should be on remembering and honoring the victims, rather than promoting the brand. Let us use this anniversary as a time to reflect, unite, and pay tribute to those who lost their lives on that tragic day.
