Don't Be Timid About Defending DEI

“When we fight, we win!”

Vice President Kamala Harris’ words are resonating in my head after watching the opening night of the Democratic Convention last night.

I feel the same way about DEI. When we fight, we win!

Over the past year, as we have collaborated with clients on the workshops we would facilitate in their organizations, I have noticed a nervousness that I haven’t seen in past years. 

The most common cause is talking across differences. The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, the student protests, the presidential elections. 

Another concern is the conservative backlash against DEI. Fear of lawsuits. Pressure from leadership or from participants. 

During our conversations, clients’ requests are reflecting these concerns. One client—who I know believes that the work is essential—asked if we could share our message while avoiding trigger words like “microaggressions,” “harm,” and “equity” in our workshop.

I always try to meet my clients where they are. I can see that they’re being strategic in the face of very real threats to reputation and funding. 

At the same time, avoiding words and being cautious feels fear-based to me. And so far, the opposition has just continued to choose new words to demonize anyway. 

If you believe DEI is important, defend it. When a critic says your organization’s DEI work is “divisive,” try asking, “Are you saying everybody shouldn’t have equal access to opportunities? Are you really saying you don’t see that the playing field is not level?” Make them explain and defend their position.

We need to stand up and be strong about what we know is right. When we fight, we win.

#DEI  #Defend DEI  #Whenwefightwewin