DEI Died This Year. Maybe It Was Supposed To

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have been a crucial part of many organizations’ efforts to create a more equitable and inclusive workplace. However, this year has seen a shift in priorities as the world grapples with a global pandemic and social unrest.

With many businesses struggling to survive, DEI programs may have taken a backseat as companies focused on more immediate challenges. This shift has led to questions about the future of DEI initiatives and whether they are still relevant in the current climate.

Some argue that now more than ever, DEI is needed to address systemic inequalities that have been highlighted by recent events. Others believe that the focus should be on broader initiatives that benefit all employees, rather than specific diversity programs.

It’s possible that the death of DEI this year was a necessary step in reevaluating our approach to creating inclusive workplaces. Perhaps it’s time to move away from token gestures and towards more substantive changes that address the root causes of inequality.

While the future of DEI remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion is far from over. As we look towards a post-pandemic world, there will be new opportunities to reframe the way we think about workplace diversity and create lasting change.

It’s time to reflect on what DEI meant to us and how we can move forward in a more intentional and impactful way. Maybe the death of DEI was just the beginning of a new chapter in our collective journey towards a more equitable and inclusive society.