An Open to Letter the Photography Industry

Your Silence Speaks Volumes

From the desk of Dr. Tomayia Colvin, a statement on racism and brands.

In the wake of hate crimes committed against Black men and women and the necessary protests against injustice and inequality in the US, some brands have found their voices. They’ve used their platforms to speak out against racism and put their money where their mouths are by pledging millions to fight racial, social, and economic inequity.

However, there are some brands that remain silent and have not spoken out against racism.

As a Black woman photographer, educator, and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the photography industry, I’m appalled by the fact that camera brands like Canon, Nikon, and Fujifilm have not spoken out against racism.

To the many camera brands that have not shown up to support the Black community:

Your silence is no longer an option. The longer you sit quietly in privilege, the more we lose faith in your brand and the less loyalty we have for your brand.

Your brand either stands with the Black community or against the Black community. I suggest you pick a side before we assume you stand against us.

Please know my photography community is watching you, and we will hold you accountable.

Respectfully,

Dr. Tomayia Colvin