CAA RE-COMMITS TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

CAA has announced several efforts underscoring the agency's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

"The events over the past couple weeks continue to demonstrate the injustices Black people face daily," said Richard Lovett, President, CAA. "It’s critical that we look hard at the deeply flawed systems and racial prejudice that persist in our communities, and most importantly, how we can each be an active ally in changing what is so broken. Words are not enough – as always, we’re committed to taking action, and being brave and united for all of our colleagues, clients, and friends in the black community."

CAA’s first immediate action is the appointment of Lisa Joseph Metelus to the CAA Board, the agency’s new leadership structure formed in January which underscores the company’s continued growth and next-generation strategy.

"It is critical that our Board better reflects the real world," added Lovett. "Lisa is a force. Beyond being a proven leader in one of the most successful divisions of CAA Sports, she is among the most accomplished and respected executives in the industry. She has a powerful voice, both smart and visionary, and we look forward to further amplifying her insights and perspective across the agency."

As Co-Head of Basketball Marketing and Servicing, Metelus, who joined CAA Sports in 2011, helps oversee the off-the-court efforts of more than four dozen emerging NBA players. Her personal clients include Dwyane Wade, Zion Williamson, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Collin Sexton, among others. Earlier this year, Metelus was integral in the ideation and launch of CAA AMP, a cultural strategy agency, with an in-depth understanding of unique communities, voices, passions, values, and beliefs.

"We have reached an inflection point for change in sports and entertainment. The need for inclusion of black voices in senior management level positions and board rooms is necessary for the progress of our industry and many other industries with global reach. It’s important that we reflect who we represent," said Metelus. "This role allows me to bring my voice and perspective into the board room, to impact decision-making, drive new business development and continue advocating for our rising black leaders."

CAA’s second immediate action takes place on Tuesday, 6/2, with all CAA employees worldwide observing Blackout Tuesday, the music industry’s day of reflection, disconnecting from work to provoke accountability, change, and meaningful action.

The final announcement is the agency's plans to host the 4th annual CAA Amplify conference. CAA Amplify was conceived to inform, inspire, and connect multicultural leaders, and provide a dynamic platform to share industry trends that are shaping the cultural landscape. Also guided by a strategic collaboration with the Ford Foundation, CAA Amplify has enabled attendees to interact with top social justice leaders and organizations working to create a more inclusive and equitable world for underrepresented communities.