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  • American Counseling Association (ACA)

The American Counseling Association’s Stand Against Discrimination

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When the American Counseling Association (ACA) faced a critical decision following Tennessee’s discriminatory HB1840 law, which allowed counselors to refuse services to LGBTQ clients, they turned to our firm and Adele Gambardella’s expertise for strategic guidance. Committed to inclusivity and equality, ACA needed to navigate this challenge without compromising their core values.

The Challenge

ACA grappled with intense pressure over whether to hold their planned conference in Nashville, Tennessee, after the passing of HB1840.

Key challenges included:

  • Balancing financial and logistical implications of moving an unprecedented conference.
  • Avoiding a compromise of their principles by staying in a state with discriminatory laws.
  • Communicating their stance effectively to members, stakeholders, and the public.

 

They aimed to take a firm stand against discrimination while maintaining their credibility and support base.

The Solution

We partnered with ACA to craft a bold strategy that aligned with their values and amplified their message of inclusivity.

Our approach included:

  1. Guiding ACA’s leadership to relocate the conference as a stand against discrimination.
  2. Developing clear messaging to explain the decision to members and stakeholders.
  3. Securing top-tier media interviews to broadcast ACA’s position to a national audience.
  4. Supporting ongoing advocacy to reinforce their commitment to equality.

 

This strategic execution turned a tough decision into a powerful statement of integrity.

Results

Our collaboration with ACA delivered significant impact, reinforcing their leadership and values on a national stage.

Key outcomes included:

  • Over 863 articles in outlets like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and USA Today, featuring CEO Rich Yep’s interviews.
  • Industry recognition for Rich Yep in Associations Now, celebrating his exceptional leadership.
  • A precedent set for associations, with ACA’s relocation inspiring action on social issues.
  • Ongoing support from our agency, advancing ACA’s mission of inclusivity.

 

Facing a tough decision? Contact us today to lead with integrity and drive change!

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