Why DEI Deserves the Spotlight

The past week has been a whirlwind. I’ve had the opportunity to engage with several media outlets as companies like Meta, Walmart, and Amazon make waves for scaling back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These stories—whether celebrating or critiquing DEI—have dominated headlines, sparking debates about what inclusion means in today’s workplaces.

So, let me begin with gratitude.

Thank you for creating the space to have these discussions. Thank you for amplifying the conversation. And thank you for reminding me—and all of us—why DEI matters now more than ever.

Finding Opportunity in the Backlash

It’s no secret that DEI has become a polarizing topic. Some companies are retreating, while others, like Costco and Apple, are standing their ground and reaffirming the value of their inclusion efforts. In these moments, I see an opportunity to lean into the conversation.

The critiques are clear: Some argue that DEI undermines fairness, claiming it conflicts with the idea of meritocracy. Others suggest that the term itself has become “charged.” But here’s the thing: we can’t have productive discussions about inclusion if we only scratch the surface.

Meritocracy, as a concept, doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It requires us to acknowledge systemic barriers, unconscious biases, and the uneven playing fields many of us face. DEI isn’t about favoritism—it’s about creating equitable opportunities for everyone to thrive.

The Business Case: Evidence and Impact

While some companies are scaling back, organizations like Costco and Apple are reinforcing their commitment to DEI—and for good reason. The evidence is clear:

• Diverse teams drive innovation by bringing varied perspectives to problem-solving.

• Inclusive environments increase employee satisfaction and retention, reducing costly turnover.

• Representation matters—both for employees and the customers they serve.

Costco’s decision to reject anti-DEI shareholder proposals is a powerful reminder of what’s at stake. Their leadership recognizes that inclusion isn’t just good for business; it’s foundational to their success. As they’ve pointed out, diversity strengthens creativity, enhances customer experiences, and builds better communities.

Beyond the Buzzwords: Focus on Action

At the same time, I understand why some organizations are reevaluating their DEI efforts. Words matter. For some, terms like “DEI” now carry political weight, obscuring their original purpose. But changing the language—whether it’s “belonging,” “access,” or something else—only matters if the underlying work continues.

This isn’t about choosing sides; it’s about developing the skills we need to connect across differences. It’s about moving beyond surface-level debates to address the systemic inequities that hold people back.

What’s Next?

For those stepping away from DEI, it’s important to reflect on the deeper motivations and implications of this decision. Consider asking yourself:

1. What specific challenges or barriers led to the decision to step away from DEI initiatives?

2. Are you addressing inequities in meaningful, actionable ways?

3. Or are you simply retreating from the conversation?

For those doubling down: thank you. Thank you for demonstrating what it looks like to lead with courage and conviction in challenging times. Your commitment serves as a reminder that DEI is not just a value—it’s a strategy for success, innovation, and community building.

Why This Work Matters

As someone who has spent years helping organizations create spaces of inclusion and belonging, these conversations are personal. They remind me why this work is so important—and why we can’t afford to stop now. And while the road ahead may feel uncertain, I am confident that inclusion is the way forward.

Thank you for amplifying these conversations, even in times of challenge. Together, we can ask the hard questions, challenge assumptions, and work toward a future where equity and inclusion are not optional, but essential.

Together, we can create the workplaces—and the world—we all deserve.