Cause marketing continues to drive the conversation at Cannes Lions this year, driving conversation about diversity, equality, helping communities and putting an end to sexual harassment. If changing the world gets you out of bed in the morning or you’re looking for a way to get started, you’re in luck—here’s where to find activism at the festival.

For more Cannes Lions events, check out our curated list.


#WomenCannes

When: Friday, June 22

Where: Everywhere in the marketing world

Hollywood is undergoing a revolution in which women draw the line against inappropriate and abusive behaviors still common today. The Time’s Up and #MeToo movements invited conversation, repercussions for offenders and caused a ripple effect through other industries and countries around the world.

Now, Cannes Lions is getting its own version of the movement—#WomenCannes—introduced by an anonymous group of self-described marketing professionals. The organization is inviting both men and women to wear black on the last day of Cannes Lions June 22. Those not at the festival are encouraged to wear black to work wherever they may be to illustrate how many qualified females are left out of Cannes Lions and show solidarity for the cause.

Women are encouraged to “roar” for their fellow lady marketers at the festival and can even wear temporary Women Cannes tattoos. (DM the organization on Instagram to get yours.)


Action! Diversity In Filmmaking: Beyond Empowerment To Execution

A discussion about why diversity and representation matters in filmmaking and how brands can foster change through mentorship and scholarship programs.

When: Thursday, June 21 from 3:00-3:45 p.m.

Where: Entertainment Stage, Palais II

Speakers:
Lena Waithe—AT&T Hello Lab ambassador, Emmy-award-winning writer, actor
Matt Castellanos—AT&T Hello Lab ambassador, filmmaker
Valerie Vargas—senior vice president of advertising and creative services, AT&T Mobility and Entertainment Group

Moderator: Maureen Polo—senior vice president, brand studio, Fullscreen


Marketing To Deeply Polarized Societies

Marketers are feeling the pressure to choose a side on polarizing social issues. This session explores ways to reach consumers on both sides of the issue using techniques and psychology.

When: Thursday, June 21 from 1:00-1:45 p.m.

Where: Debussy Theatre, Palais I

Speakers:
Kurt Anderson—author, entrepreneur, radio host
Jocelyn Kiley—director of political research, Pew Research Center
Chuck Porter—founder and chairman, Crispin Porter + Bogusky


Can We Refine Feminity With Creativity?

Hosted by CoverGirl, the session will discuss ways creators can challenge conventional assumptions about the expression of femininity, and push the boundaries of creativity by giving women the power to define it.

When: Friday, June 22 from 2:15-3:00 p.m.

Where: Lumière Theatre, Palais I

Speakers:
Katy Alonzo—group strategy director, Droga5
Issa Rae—CoverGirl ambassador, writer, actress
Ukonwa Ojo—senior vice president, CoverGirl

Moderator: Michelle Lee—editor-in-chief, Allure


How To Create More Gender-Inclusive Creative?

This interactive workshop explores inequality issues and outdated portrayals in marketing while offering hands-on solutions through a new framework, based on deep cultural understanding.

When: Tuesday, June 19 from 3:00-4:30 p.m.

Where: Workshop Room, Palais I

Speakers:
Andrew Geoghegan—global consumer planning director, Diageo
Grainne Wafer—global brand director for Bailey’s, Diageo


Young Lions Meet-up: Girl Bossing, Mischeifing, Leaning In

Open to all delegates, this gettogether highlights progress and opportunities in the female space instead of focusing on the negative, of which the world already has plenty.

When: Monday, June 18 from 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Where: Meet Ups Space, The Terrace

Speaker: Emily Hinks—founder, Mischief Makers


Searching For Syria: Using Technology For Good

Google, UNHCR and R/GA takes guests behind the scenes of a program that uses Google searches to educate internet users about the conflict in Syria and the resulting refugees. This talk will explore how interactive experiences and technology can be used as a force for good.

When: Monday, June 18 from 10:00-10:45 a.m.

Where: The Forum, Palais I

Speakers:
Andre Le Masurier—executive creative director, Google Brand Studio
James Temple—EVP and chief creative officer of EMEA, R/GA


The Death Of Masculinity And Its Impact On Creativity

A lively debate about how the “Death of Old-School Masculinity” will transform creativity and how brands message consumers, especially as the rise of gender fluidity also sweeps through society.

When: Monday, June 18 from 1:00-1:45 p.m.

Where: Lumière Theatre, Palais I

Speakers:
Michael Kimmel—SUNY Distinguished Professor of Sociology and Gender Studies, Center for the Study of Men and Masculinities
Amy Nelson—founder, The Riveter
Violet Chachki—Drag Queen, burlesque dancer, model, TV personality

Moderator: Faith Popcorn—CEO, Faith Popcorn’s BrainReserve


Meet Up: Women In The Creative Industries

Everyone is welcome to this networking event that celebrates girl power and creativity.

When: Thursday, June 21 from 10:30-11:00 a.m.

Where: Meet Ups Space, The Terrace

Speakers: Karen Kaplan—Chairman and CEO, Hill Holliday


LGBTQ&A

Ever had a question about the LGBTQ+ community but were too embarrassed to ask? Submit your questions anonymously and learn more about inclusion, stereotypes and ways to support this diverse community.

When: Monday, June 18 from 4:15-5:00 p.m.

Where: Terrace Stage

Speakers:
Tom Trevelyan—senior account director, Havas
Tea Uglow—show pony, Google

Moderator: Laura Jordan Bambach—chief creative officer, Mr. President


Diversity—A Values Issue And Business Imperitive—Requires Bold Action

A discussion about how diversity is good for business and what companies can do about it.

When: Tuesday, June 19 from 11:00-11:45 p.m.

Where: Lumière Theatre, Palais I

Speakers:
Edward Enninful—editor-in-chief, British Vogue
Antonio Lucio—chief marketing officer, HP
Thandie Newton—British actress
Tiffany R. Warren—senior vice president and chief diversity officer, Omnicorp Group