How to address the US Capitol riots
A look at the conversations within organizations about whether to make an external statement on the events surrounding the Jan. 6 protests in Washington, D.C.
Members shared plenty of caution when it came to making a statement about the riots that overtook the U.S. Capitol as members of Congress tried to certify the Electoral College result on Jan. 6. One of the areas that got a closer look is the arena of donations to political action committees or election campaigns.
One member spoke about counseling clients who were trying to address their past donations to candidates like Josh Hawley, the senator from Missouri who has become a leader on the effort to oppose certifying the election.
Quiet on social media
Another member shared that while her company does not usually make a statement about political issues or events, the company did take steps to pull back as the events unfolded Jan. 6. Social media “went quiet” and a planned company release was put on hold.
The U.S. Capitol riots are forcing companies to reevaluate their stance on public speech after many decided to make a statement during the protests after the death of George Floyd in May of last year. One member indicates that whether a company is going to be outspoken on an issue stems from the CEO, and her company is still finding its footing with a new leader.
Speaking out
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