The Dismantling of DEI: Division by Design

The attacks on DEI are not about its imperativeness or effectiveness, but rather a tactic to delegitimize expertise, detract from necessary structural changes, and maintain the existing power dynamics. As a researcher and long-standing practitioner, from my lens, here are some of the ways that have led to the attacks on DEI:

Silent Acceptance: The sudden blaming of DEI for organizational failures is a result of leadership ignoring rampant exclusion and racism, choosing silence instead of addressing systemic barriers and bias.

The Backlash to Progress: Post-2020 racial reckoning, a backlash emerged against leveling the playing field, disrupting the status quo, rooted in anti-Blackness. Quick fixes and tokenization became shortcuts to address longstanding exclusionary practices.

Missed Opportunities: Had organizations heeded DEI calls, and supported its necessity, our collective understanding and progress would be more evolved and nuanced today.

Resistance to Change: Blaming DEI deflects from the reluctance to change the status quo. Organizations need to acknowledge their stance instead of scapegoating DEI, which seeks to right the wrongs of injustice. The quiet part is being said aloud.

Offensive Scapegoating: Scapegoating DEI is offensive and violent, as it is essential…