Channel 9 has rolled out a second vaccine ad including people of colour two days after copping criticism for an all-white version
Social media users immediately called out the original ad when it was published on Tuesday, pointing out that its line-up of the station's stars were all white.
In what appears to be a hasty response, the multimedia company released an updated version including Gamilaroi journalist Brooke Boney, Syrian-Australian reporter Sarah Abo, and travel guides 'Kev and Teng'.
As the federal government cops increasing heat over its bungled handling of the vaccination roll-out, some organisations, such as Channel 9, are taking it upon themselves to provide the community with the impetus to get the jab.
However, many were quick to point out that an all-white cast would fail to connect with people of colour in the effort to encourage inoculation.
First Nations communities have been at a disadvantage when it comes to access to messaging around vaccinations, as well as having a higher prevalence of vaccine hesitancy.
Michael Healy, Nine’s Director of Television, seemed to suggest the original ad was only one of many that constitute a campaign the station was undertaking, presumably with more representation to be expected in the subsequent examples.
“As we are in the midst of a global pandemic, 9Network is continuing to support community awareness regarding COVID and to be informed about the vaccination, this is our shot for Australia to be connected again.
“It is an internal initiative and there will be a number of promos rolled out during this campaign”.
