Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce did in two weeks what most advertising agencies have failed to do for decades—the fictional shop has embraced diversity. Granted, the place only hired a new Black secretary. “She was the most qualified,” explained Don Draper. Um, since when have secretaries at SCDP ever displayed qualifications beyond good looks and a willingness to have sex with Roger Sterling? Plus, at the insistence of Sterling, Peggy Olson hired a Jewish copywriter, another first for the agency, which should provide Mad Men series creator Matthew Weiner more opportunities to present cultural stereotypes. What’s next? A Chief Diversity Officer?
For a semi-related perspective on the secretary scenario, check out this essay at The Daily Beast.
