Is Advertising a Right?

As a son of Michigan I say with equal parts awe and disappointment, Michigan appears to be a dumpster fire, in more ways than one.  Of course, COVID-19 is ravaging the state much like others, but seems to be hitting harder (or at least has a higher mortality rate).  Yet paradoxically, this week that state capitol was the site of a (relatively) large protest against the state mandated lockdown.  This is somewhat predictable given the state's dire economic woes and deeply divided politics, and speaks to the increasingly loud debate over public health and economic liberty.

This overarching debate--economic liberty vs public health and safety--is also affecting digital marketers.  Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order that large retailers (greater than 50,000 square feet) "refrain from the advertising or promotion of goods that are not grocierice, medical supplies, or items that are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and basic operation of residences."  The order additional targeted property owners and directed them not to "rent a short-term vacation property except as necessary to assist in housing a health care professional or volunteer aiding the response to the COVID-19 crisis."

On the one hand, this is clearly a move by Michigan's Governor to reinforce social distancing.  It is also a boon to small and mid-size businesses as it doesn't effect their ability to advertise.  But is this fair?  Is it ethical?  Legal?  Moral?  How much longer can or should we isolate and close down business?  While the answer right now seems to (rightfully) be to err in favor of health and safety, as we re-open the economy that will not always be so.  How much risk can or should we assume as we re-open and who should decide?

Like it or not, digital marketers are affected and have as much of a say as anyone else.

https://adage.com/article/cmo-strategy/ad-industry-bodies-urge-michigan-governor-recant-ban-advertising-nonessential-items/2250461