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ANDY Awards

Creative Award
New York, United States
Courageous Conversation Global Foundation - "Driving While Black" by ANDY Awards 2024

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TitleDriving While Black
BriefThe Driving While Black campaign introduced the first-ever vehicle where the safety feature is the car itself. We aimed to demonstrate that racism continues to be an everyday reality for Black Americans by visualizing the absurdity of the double standards they face. To do this, we designed a car to immerse individuals in the experiences of Black drivers. Many Americans believe that racism is bad, but perceive it as less prevalent in today’s society because they aren’t faced with it day-to-day, so we wanted them to be our target audience. The work made a positive change by sparking conversations, articulating a perpetual problem, and creating a space for people to learn/teach others about racial bias in the American Justice system.  
Agency
Campaign Driving While Black
Advertiser Courageous Conversation Global Foundation
Brand Courageous Conversation Global Foundation
Date of First Broadcast/Publication 2023
Business Sector Charities, Foundations, Volunteers
Story Since 2017, over 600 Black people have been killed during routine traffic stops by police in America. The Driving While Black car was built to highlight the double standards Black people experience during the most common interaction with police—traffic stops. This project brings attention to the absurdity of these standards and gives people a clear perspective about the social injustice Black people face every time they get behind the wheel. From the absence of a glove box to a modified steering wheel to even the absence of a trunk, this car is equipped to keep drivers alive. We launched the car at the most important car event of the year: the Detroit Auto Show. We created an AR car experience that allows people to explore the car in real time, so they wouldn’t just hear about our car—they would know better what it’s like to drive while Black. DWB was shown around the country, beyond Detroit, including in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York City and even in Canada. Our website allows visitors to learn the tragic stories behind each feature and get a better understanding of why each piece of the car is necessary. Viewers are invited to get involved by not only bringing awareness to the campaign but also learning how they can bring change to law enforcement in their community.
Media Type Digital
Length
AI Description The ad showcases a new car model designed to highlight the unique challenges faced by Black individuals during police traffic stops. The vehicle features a 10-in-2 steering wheel for enhanced visibility of the driver’s hands, a removed glove box to eliminate suspicion, and an ultrasonic biometric scanner allowing contactless exchange of information. The car lacks a trunk, minimizing the risk of searches, and is equipped with airless tires for safety. Amidst a dark backdrop, the car is displayed with various angles emphasizing its features. The narrative suggests these are necessary adjustments reflecting on the real danger Black individuals face. The campaign calls for awareness and involvement, urging viewers to learn more and contribute to change. It underlines the notion that the car itself isn’t a solution but sparks conversation and awareness about racial discrimination.
Agency
Production Company