Welcome Remarks from 2023 PR Trends Luncheon
Posted on Jan. 25, 2023 / Event, Board / Subscribe 0
This week I had the pleasure of kicking off OCPRSA’s 2023 programming with our sold-out in-person event, the 2023 PR Trends Luncheon.
The excitement was also mixed with emotions, coming just days after two tragic acts of gun violence in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay.
These recent events profoundly affect our work in public relations.
As we battle misinformation, divisive rhetoric, and hate speech, we have a responsibility to our publics to stand up for what is right and what is ethical.
The power lies with us to advise and advocate for the rights and human dignity for all.
We can no longer stand in the shadows of what's easy, what's uncontroversial, what's not going to anger our target audiences.
For today's most disruptive trend, is that our world is becoming increasingly numb to the tragedies we've lived in recent times.
But it's one we as public relations professionals have the power to counter disrupt; to set on a new course.
We have the power to embrace a future where historically marginalized and underrepresented voices receive the microphone.
One where we come together to talk openly and empathetically about our problems and how we can come together to solve them.
OCPRSA has a long record of upholding values that lift diverse voices and work to solve some of our industry's most complex issues.
Over the last three years since we’ve held this trends event, our board of directors has had the privilege of receiving implicit bias training from OC Human Relations, has strengthened our partnership with OC Forum and have sought new and innovative ways to bring DEI programs to our members through events such as the DEI Summit last November as well as our Eye on DEI digital series.
This work has led OCPRSA to receive numerous accolades including the honor of second place at last year’s diversity reception at the PRSA International conference last fall.
As we gather here today, we are on the cusp of a new year and a new era in public relations, one that embraces diversity and inclusivity as we navigate new trends and practices.
With the ever-evolving world of technology and the constant changes in the media and digital landscape, it is important for us to stay informed and adapt to the trends shared by our panelists, and more, in order to communicate and connect with our audiences effectively.
We are working on bringing programs that will help you grow professionally and interpersonally. We’re proud to be able to offer a wide variety of programs from in-person mixers, and panels to virtual meetings and webinars.
We have a best-in-class APR study cohort that produces record-setting accreditation numbers year after year. If you're thinking about getting your APR, please join us on February 27th for a free info session led by our 2023 APR and ethics chair as well as our 2023 president-elect Meg Treat, APR.
We also host exclusive access to our region's most sought-after reporters and members of the media through our events. Our morning coffee with the media is back as a members-only event on February 28 with very special guest Vikki Vargas. Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter, the InBox, for the latest details and how to register.
And if you’re looking to get more involved, now is a great time to support your board chairs as they look to plan this year‘s programs. You have a voice in our chapter and we want you to feel heard.
Elena Bosch, APR
Director of Communications, Think Together
2023 OCPRSA Chapter President
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