Sensitive is an adjective, I believe, not frequently used to describe publicists. However, being sensitive to world events is of the utmost importance if the representative is to nourish his/her client’s positive reputation. It’s important to stay informed and make decisions for your client that may not be popular at first but will make a statement about their intentions and motives, because, sometimes, the show must NOT go on.
Due to the violent passage through New York City of Hurricane Sandy, much of the city was destroyed and has yet to be repaired. FEMA and government officials did an excellent job taking immediate action, both before and after the destruction began. The NYC Marathon, now canceled, was meant to be held Sunday, November 4, less than a week after the hurricane. The marathon takes place all over NYC, starting in Staten Island, and leading its participants through Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and concluding in Central Park.
It’s fair to say that this is not the best time for athletes from across the globe to come to the city to…run around. Staten Island is still very much under water, and downtown Manhattan is, at the time of this piece, without power. People were killed by falling trees, a father and son drowned in their basement, businesses were washed away, and trees that had fallen on power lines caused many house fires. Despite the city’s best intentions, the prospect of the NYC Marathon felt like a slap in the face for victims of the storm. At 6:00pm on the Friday before the marathon, the race was declared canceled in an effort conserve and focus resources where they are needed most.
“Too soon” is a colloquialism that is perfectly applicable to this situation. It’s a relief that the marathon was canceled, because hosting an event where tourists and New Yorkers alike traipse around the unlit, disheveled and devastated city is just plain offensive. Road Runners, the company that puts on the marathon, made an excellent decision when it comes to demonstrating their timing sensitivity and putting the needs of themselves behind the needs of the city. Plus, this “timing is everything” lesson turned the Marathon’s participants into do-gooders — many chose to spend their weekend in Staten Island, lending a hand…and running around. To them I say, bravo.
— Hannah Longman
