Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
Back to profile4 entries
2020
Black Female Anonymous workplace allegations
An anonymous group of former and possibly current employees alleged sexual harassment, bullying, pay inequity, and mistreatment by senior staff. An investigation followed, and Richelieu Dennis stepped down from leadership.
2020
Essence commissions independent review amid workplace allegations
Company response
Essence said it was hiring law firms and other independent external experts to review company policies and practices and conduct employee interviews, including a review of possible harassment, discrimination, retaliation, or other workplace-culture issues.
Stated objective. Ensure the ongoing trust of the company's communities and employees.
Company response
Investigation — Essence
Essence is in the process of hiring law firms and other independent external experts to assess and review the company’s policies and practices and conduct comprehensive employee interviews, as well as independently review any harassment, discrimination, retaliation or other behaviors or issues that may adversely impact workplace culture.
Source excerpt
That was followed by a press statement late Tuesday announcing that Essence is hiring law firms and independent external experts, “out of an abundance of caution and an unwavering commitment to transparency,” to review the company’s polices and practices and to review any issues that may adversely affect its culture.
Black-owned media giant Essence Communications, which publishes Essence magazine, has responded to allegations made by an anonymous group of women that it created a toxic work culture for employees with the announcement of an independent review and a new interim CEO.
Essence first responded with a statement on its site on Monday: “the accusations are false and we fully deny them.”
2005
Controversy over the end of Black ownership
Time Inc.'s acquisition of Essence Communications ended more than three decades of Black ownership, prompting criticism and debate about control of Black media.
2000
Debate over white editorial staffing
The hiring of white editorial personnel, including Michael Bullerdick in a senior production role, generated criticism because of concerns about representation and alignment with Essence's mission.