How Airbnb Quickly Turned a Negative into Something Beautiful.

Airbnb's "We Accept" campaign was all about saying no to discrimination and yes to acceptance.

It's a stand-out moment in marketing where a brand didn't just face an issue head-on.

It also grabbed the issue by the collar, punched it hard in the face, and said, "Enough!"—all via an ad campaign.

And this wasn't your average, everyday type of ad either.

It was an emotionally charged clap-back ad.

The campaign responded to the discrimination people were experiencing on Airbnb's platform.

Fed up, Airbnb went in—highlighting people from every nook and cranny of humanity.

The aim?

To stir up the pot of hospitality by adding an abundance of inclusivity and encouraging people to open their minds, hearts, and homes—to diversity.

The words of the ad echoed loud and clear:

Here's Why It Worked:

✅ The campaign stayed true to what Airbnb is about, belonging anywhere.

✅ Airbnb didn't run away from a problem. It faced it head-on and turned it into something positive.

✅ The campaign spoke to our hearts. It wasn't just some clever marketing. It was one of those you-know-who-you-are moments where you're called out to be better and do better. And if you have a soul— you will.

What's the Takeaway?

If you create a platform or product that isn't used as you intended, don't be afraid to take a stand and use it as an opportunity to push for positive change.

Like Airbnb, emphasize your brand's core values of your product, speak to people's hearts, and publically clarify and stay true to why you created it in the first place.

With powerful messaging like this, you can create lasting impact - and quickly turn a negative into something beautiful.

With Love,

Wendu

P.S. If you learned anything at all, please share this newsletter with a fellow creative. ;)