ADCOLOR 2025: Navigating a Shifting Landscape for DEI in Creative Industries

ORLANDO, FL – October 28, 2025 – The annual ADCOLOR conference and awards, set to take place November 11-14 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, arrives at a critical juncture for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the advertising, design, and media sectors. This year’s theme, ‘CTRL + ALT + LIFT,’ reflects a call to action – a demand to reclaim narratives and foster collective progress. However, the event unfolds against a backdrop of evolving corporate priorities, with several key sponsors simultaneously scaling back broader DEI initiatives.

A Pivotal Moment for DEI

For nearly two decades, ADCOLOR has served as a vital platform for celebrating diverse voices and championing inclusion within creative industries. The organization’s annual gathering brings together industry leaders, rising talent, and advocates committed to fostering a more equitable landscape. This year’s theme emphasizes the need to ‘reset’ outdated practices, ‘alter’ existing systems, and ‘lift’ marginalized voices. The call resonates strongly, especially as systemic inequalities continue to hinder progress and representation remains uneven across the sector.

“The energy at ADCOLOR is always inspiring,” says one industry veteran who has attended several conferences. “It’s a space where you can be authentically yourself and connect with people who truly understand the challenges and opportunities of building a more inclusive industry. But this year, there’s a different tone – a sense of urgency.”

Sponsor Scrutiny: Walking the Talk?

The commitment of ADCOLOR's sponsors – Amazon, Disney, and Meta – is under increased scrutiny as each company has recently recalibrated its DEI efforts. While continuing to financially support ADCOLOR, these corporations have simultaneously scaled back internal programs, eliminated DEI-focused roles, and, in some cases, even removed explicit DEI language from official reports. This apparent contradiction raises questions about the authenticity of their sponsorship and whether it’s driven by genuine commitment or simply a desire for positive public relations.

“It's a complex situation,” explains a DEI consultant who has worked with multiple Fortune 500 companies. “These companies are facing economic pressures and a changing political landscape. They’re trying to navigate a tricky situation where they need to demonstrate their commitment to DEI without alienating any stakeholders. But simply writing a check for a conference doesn’t absolve them of their responsibility to address systemic issues within their own organizations.”

Amazon, Disney, and Meta have all stated their continued commitment to inclusive work environments. However, the elimination of targeted DEI programs, like those focused on hiring and supplier diversity, has sparked criticism and raised concerns that progress may be stalled. Some observers believe that these companies are shifting towards a more “neutral” approach, prioritizing broad concepts of fairness and equal opportunity over specific initiatives designed to address historical inequalities.

Beyond Recognition: Empowering the Next Generation

Despite the challenging context, ADCOLOR remains committed to its core mission of empowering diverse talent and fostering a more inclusive industry. This year’s conference will feature a diverse lineup of speakers and honorees, including Mara Brock Akil, Michelle Ghee, and Carmen Smith – individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to DEI through their work and advocacy. The event will also provide opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional development, helping to cultivate the next generation of creative leaders.

The focus on empowerment extends beyond recognition. ADCOLOR’s initiatives aim to create lasting change by fostering a pipeline of diverse talent and challenging systemic barriers. This includes providing scholarships, mentorship programs, and opportunities for professional development. By investing in the next generation of creative leaders, ADCOLOR hopes to build a more equitable and inclusive industry from the ground up.

“It’s not enough to simply celebrate diversity,” explains one ADCOLOR board member. “We need to actively create opportunities for marginalized groups to thrive. That means addressing systemic barriers, providing mentorship and support, and creating a culture where everyone feels valued and respected.”

The selection of honorees such as Carmen Smith, whose work focuses on inclusive product development and storytelling at Disney, highlights the importance of embedding DEI into the creative process. Her role underscores the need for authentic representation and culturally sensitive content that reflects the diversity of the world. Similarly, Michelle Ghee’s work on championing diversity in media, and specifically through her emphasis on BETHer, demonstrates a concrete commitment to inclusion.

ADCOLOR’s continued impact lies in its ability to provide a space for authentic dialogue, shared learning, and collective action. While the current landscape presents challenges, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive creative industry.