The 24th Annual Rainbow PUSH Global Automotive Summit marked a significant milestone in advancing diversity and inclusivity within the automotive industry. With a theme centered on “Affirming Diversity in the EV Sector,” the summit brought together over 300 industry professionals, including C-Suite executives, suppliers, dealerships, elected officials, and media. The summit was held from November 14 to 15 at a new location, Wayne County Community College District – Northwest Campus in Detroit.
The summit’s success was made possible by the support of influential sponsors committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the automotive sector. National Legacy Sponsors included Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Toyota Motor North America, while National Sponsors comprised Stellantis North America, Kia America and Nissan Americas. Other auto-maker sponsors included BMW, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Hyundai Motor America, Jaguar Land Rover North America, Mercedes Benz USA, Subaru of America, Inc., and Volkswagen Group of America. These key sponsors not only contributed financially but also played a crucial role in shaping the discourse on diversity and inclusion throughout the summit.
The summit’s agenda was both diverse and comprehensive, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the automotive industry. Sessions included:
- Chief Diversity Officers Panel
- Tier One Panel
- Global International Panel
- Mobility Discussion
- Awards Reception
- State of the Automotive Industry Breakfast
- Chief Marketing Panel
- Press Conference – Release of the Automotive Diversity Scorecard
- Business Luncheon: Vice Presidents of Purchasing & Education Awards
Each session provided a nuanced examination of critical aspects, from diversity and inclusion strategies to the latest industry trends.
One focal point of the summit was the Advertising and Marketing panel held on Wednesday, November 15. Moderated by Munson Steed, CEO, and publisher of rolling out media company, the panel explored the intricate dynamics of engaging authentically with multicultural consumers in the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles.
The panel delved into strategies for incorporating diverse perspectives into marketing campaigns, particularly within the context of the electric vehicle industry. It was just one pit stop in the race towards diverse representation. Distinguished panelists included Kim Adams-House, head of multicultural marketing and advertising – Stellantis North America; Tarshena Armstrong, director of diversity marketing and development at General Motors; and Meliza Humphrey, senior manager, Accura Marketing, American Honda Motor Company, INC.
As the 2023 Global Automotive Summit came to a close, it not only left behind a roadmap for inclusivity in the automotive world, it also showed promise for more diversity and innovation, while underscoring the anticipation for an imminent EV future. It also served as a platform for awarding 49 students $524,000 for this academic year, which will equate to more than $1 million over four years. With over 300 industry experts, C-Suite executives, and business leaders in attendance, the summit was more than just talk, it was a call to action.
Overall, the summit served as a crucial platform for industry leaders to collaboratively shape the future of the automotive sector. Insightful discussions underscored the industry’s commitment to authentic engagement with multicultural consumers. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, events like the Global Automotive Summit play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration, dialogue, and progress within the industry.
For more information, visit https://www.rainbowpush.org.
Photo Gallery Courtesy: Rainbow Push Coalition
