Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives have been under a microscope and vilified.
Questions and talks about diversity, equity and inclusion programs in higher education, companies and their place in America is a hot topic among conservatives as the presidential election draws near. Republicans took aim at DEI initiatives during the Republican National Convention last week. On Monday, Tennessee Representative Tim Burchett stated that Vice President Kamala Harris and now former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle were “DEI hire(s).” Dismissing the two women’s qualifications with a statement.
The recent comments have brought back the question of just what DEI is and what does a “DEI hire” mean. Here’s a look at where DEI programs and initiatives are and the roots of the program.
What does DEI mean? When did it start?
Diversity, equity, and inclusion refers to organizational frameworks that seek to promote “the fair treatment and full participation of all people”, particularly groups “who have historically been underrepresented or subject to discrimination”.
In a nutshell, DEI programs create a place where all are welcome, supported and have the resources to succeed regardless of identity, race or orientation.
In 2020 and 2021, diversity policies and programs rushed into existence amid the nation’s racial reckoning. But these aren’t new or radical ideas.
Affirmative action and equal employment laws were enacted in the middle of the 1960s, following the introduction of equal employment laws and affirmative action in workplaces, according to the Department of Labor. These laws also pushed companies to develop diversity training programs meant to help employees adapt to working in increasingly integrated office environments.
