Challenge
After someone spray-painted racially charged imagery on an exterior wall of The Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg, FL, museum officials sought guidance on how to appropriately respond.
Action
Red Banyan crisis management experts formulated a PR strategy to make sure this event was picked up by Jewish news outlets across the country, as well as in the national mainstream media. The goal was to turn this hateful act into something to build awareness for the Museum and allow community members to take action.
The resulting “Unite Against Hate” community gathering was attended by people of various races, religions, and political beliefs. The purpose of the event was to celebrate education and take a stand against ignorance.
Impact
Red Banyan’s extensive crisis management expertise helped the Museum use this ugly affair as an opportunity to build reputation and awareness and increase support and donations from a broad cross-section of the community.
The Red Banyan team also helped The Florida Holocaust Museum secure support from the White House, which sent a powerful letter that was read aloud at the event by the Museum’s executive director.
