Take control of your own narrative.
Tom Burrell, born in 1939, grew up on the south side of Chicago. In 1961, he became the first Black person in the entire city of Chicago to work in advertising, breaking barriers and paving the way for others to follow.
After spending a decade gaining experience and climbing the ranks at various ad agencies, Burrell decided to establish his own firm, Burrell McBain Advertising (now known as Burrell Communications Group).
One of Burrell's notable accomplishments was challenging prevailing perceptions and stereotypes. He had to convince clients that "Black people are not dark-skinned white people" and recognized the importance of acknowledging and celebrating cultural differences. Burrell advocated for advertising that embraced and reflected the diverse experiences of Black consumers. He understood that assimilation into white culture was never the desired end.
Working with major clients such as McDonald's and Coca-Cola, Burrell successfully persuaded them to adopt culturally relevant messaging to effectively reach the Black demographic. A collection of his advertisements for Coca-Cola are archived in the Library of Congress for its historical significance.
Burrell's influence extended beyond advertising. In his book "Brainwashed: Challenging the Myth of Black Inferiority," he explored powerful themes such as the impact of consumerism and the need to move beyond materialistic pursuits. Burrell emphasized the power of images, words, and attitudes, highlighting the potential for positive propaganda to counteract negative narratives. He also recognized the transformative capacity of social media, empowering individuals to drive change on their own terms.
HELLA INSPIRED.
