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Stretch

It’s no secret that the past two years have been rough for DEI practitioners. With multiple companies bending to the pressure of anti-DEI activists like Robby Starbuck and Students for Fair Admissions, we’re witnessing the continued shuttering of DEI functions and initiatives across educational and professional organizations alike.

It’s hard not to feel discouraged when formalized DEI efforts face so much pushback.

Here’s a universal truth, though:

Progress, especially in social justice work, is rarely linear.

What do I mean by that? We simply have to visit history to understand.

A Historical Overview of DEI Work:

1960s: During this era, DEI work was referred to as Civil Rights activism or the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Social justice activists primarily focused on racial discrimination, leading to the emergence of equal opportunity laws and affirmative action.

1970s: In addition to addressing racial discrimination, there was a growing focus on gender equity. Many efforts during this time were channeled into training programs aimed at reducing both racial discrimination and gender bias.

1980s & 1990s: The lens of advocacy broadened significantly to include ethnic, religious, and LGBTQIA+ communities. This era marked an expansion of DEI initiatives to encompass a more diverse array of identities and experiences.

2000s: DEI began to be seen as a business imperative, leading to increased financial investments from corporations. Dedicated DEI professional roles started to emerge, further institutionalizing the work.

2010s & Beyond: The year 2020 was a major catalyst for social justice work, particularly within educational and professional organizations. More in-depth and honest conversations about equity became commonplace, and DEI work began to be intentionally integrated into organizational strategic plans.

2022: A significant pullback occurred as anti-DEI bills were introduced in over 26 states. DEI efforts faced increased scrutiny, particularly following the overturning of affirmative action.

As you can see, the trajectory of DEI and social justice advocacy has followed a non-linear path. While recent years have seen setbacks, the majority of progress remains intact.

Finding Perspective:

It can feel disheartening to witness the recent pullback, but placing it in a larger historical context can be grounding. While we’ve taken small steps backward, much of the progress achieved over decades has endured.

While DEI professionals like myself serve as guides, consultants, coaches, and subject matter experts, this progress is not solely due to our efforts. Forward momentum has been achieved through the collective efforts of countless individuals who do not hold formal DEI titles.

In other words, all of us play a role in determining whether society continues to progress or regress.

What Does DEI Work Look Like Beyond Formal Initiatives?

It looks like:

• Thinx, a menstrual products company normalizing conversations about menstruation and fighting period poverty globally.

• Sweetgreen, which partners with schools and nonprofits to bring healthy food to underserved areas and promote food justice.

• Ben & Jerry’s, an ice cream company that advocates for racial justice, climate action, LGBTQ+ rights, and more.

None of these are social justice organizations, yet they recognize their responsibility to contribute to equity and inclusion.

The Power of Individuals:

Individuals should not underestimate their impact. Here are ways you can hold the line on progress:

• Support diverse voices.

• Shop with values in mind.

• Diversify the people you interact with.

• Speak up when you witness discrimination.

• Support local organizations advocating for causes you care about.

None of us are powerless in this work. If each of us leverages our power, no legislation, executive order, or group can reverse the tide of progress.

How will you use your power today?

Reflect

1. How have you seen the recent pullback in DEI efforts manifest in your workplace, community, or personal life?

2. Can you identify specific actions you’ve taken—or could take—to advance equity in your community or workplace?

3. What does “using your power” look like in your daily life, and how might you inspire others to do the same?

Act

1. Shop with your values: Support businesses that prioritize equitable practices, sustainability, or social justice initiatives.

2. Diversify your interactions: Make an effort to build relationships with people outside of your usual social or professional circles.

3. Speak up: Address microaggressions or discriminatory behavior when you witness it in real-time.

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