Global citizenship is not a novel concept. Every time there is a war, we hear a call for unity. Musicians come together to make tribute songs and donate the proceeds to charity. We are the world, indeed. Today I received an e-mail about a design competition. Adbusters is asking designers to create a world flag, free of words. The imagery should portray unity. I can’t help but be skeptical about the design of a global flag that unites global citizens. I want to believe.

Last year we worked on a “Brand America” project, where  the goal was to improve the image of the U.S. globally. My good friend Joe Quattrone and his team were selected to present their vision in front of an audience at Ad Week in New York. The event was sponsored by Businesses for Diplomatic Action, BDA, a non-profit organization concerned with the disconnect between policy and action. Keith Reinhard President, Business for Diplomatic Action Chairman Emeritus, DDB Worldwide, is committed to the reversing the rise of anti-Americanism that has come out of the shadows in recent years. He’s not alone. Strengthening America’s perception across the globe through action is worth billions to corporations. That’s not neccessarily the best reason to unite, but the call to action is serious.

There is a movement towards global citizenship slowly building. People across continents are focusing on global issues.  Everyone knows that talking isn’t going to solve anything. Which is why more and more people are taking action. Businesses are taking action too. If you have time between now and December 1st, 2008, give the flag design a shot. It’s not about everyone coming together, it’s about you doing your part.

Article Tags: Adbusters | BDA | Brand America | Competition | Design | One Flag
Filed under: Design, Luis Carranza, Marketing Trends, VCU Brandcenter