If you've ever been to Austin's infamous SXSW festival, you know internet is hard to find. As a remedy, BBH Labs has launched Homeless Hotspots at this year's festival. Last Friday, 13 people from Austin's Front Steps Shelter were given Wi-Fi devices and paid $20 up front to allow SXSW attendees connection to the internet. The homeless individuals worked about six hours and made a minimum of $50 each day. What do you think about this initiative? Do you think it exploits homeless people? Watch the above video to learn more.
One critic wrote that the “digital divide has never hit us over the head with a more blunt display of unselfconscious gall.” But Saneel Radia, director of innovation at BBH, said that the “project is about giving homeless people an opportunity to interact with a society that usually walks right by them.”
Hmm.. It seems a bit exploitative, though they could have gotten anyone to do this, not just the homeless. I guess it shines a light on the city's homeless, but letting flocks of digital savvy hipsters use wifi provided by hired homeless help just seems wrong.
In response to controversy, BBH Labs-a NY based ad agency-has halted its Homeless Hotspots initiative. There had been plans to launch in NYC but those have been called off as a result of the negative feedback.
Excellent job. A smooth Twitter-to-blog connection. Nice work -- and a great topic.
ReplyDeleteI don't know about you, but I'm on SXSW overload right about now!
I just read this on PR Week's Tumblr:
ReplyDeleteOne critic wrote that the “digital divide has never hit us over the head with a more blunt display of unselfconscious gall.” But Saneel Radia, director of innovation at BBH, said that the “project is about giving homeless people an opportunity to interact with a society that usually walks right by them.”
I agree with Radia on this one.
I'm actually headed to SXSW tomorrow to photo edit music/film events for AP Images. I wish the tech part was still going on!
ReplyDeleteHmm.. It seems a bit exploitative, though they could have gotten anyone to do this, not just the homeless. I guess it shines a light on the city's homeless, but letting flocks of digital savvy hipsters use wifi provided by hired homeless help just seems wrong.
ReplyDeleteIn response to controversy, BBH Labs-a NY based ad agency-has halted its Homeless Hotspots initiative. There had been plans to launch in NYC but those have been called off as a result of the negative feedback.
ReplyDelete