Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The linked free-to-read WSJ article describes how some organizations are attempting to continue diversity, equity and inclusion practices without using the acronym or specific words that make them a target. Is that encouraging or a disappointment, contrasted to companies that continue to publicize their efforts?

https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/careers/company-dei-strategies-d859e7d7?st=weEu1e&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink 

Bill Mc

For me it's somewhat encouraging. Organizations know that the work matters to many of their employees and stakeholders. However, many of the employers aren't willing to invest enough resources into it. 

Why did I say "somewhat"? Some organizations are only continuing the work after seeing the financial issues companies like Target are having. Their focus is only on revenue and not the needs and benefits of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion work.

An excellent point, Michelle. While doing the right thing for the right reason is to be preferred, we sometimes have to accept getting the right results for another reason. The same question has arisen in our Sustainability CoP, where Return On Investment (ROI) questions are being asked. Costco says they have seen increased business correlated with their announcement. They may also be seeing the result of improved morale and better retention, both of which contribute to more repeat customers. An academic study of employees' attitudes at companies continuing vs abandoning DEI might be instructive. I doubt our 2025-28 NSF would fund it. Perhaps one of the foundations would do so.

Bill Mc

It's better than completely erasing it like the military did after the executive orders came out.  Being unable to say diversity, equity, and inclusion and include it in everyday language still feels unnatural.

I agree, Ernesto. I hear that even projects mentioning biological diversity have been cut off because that word appeared in the documentation. It's a terrible situation when saying, "a diversity of ideas" triggers someone. Someone has suggested the newer acronym JEDI might fly under the radar. I'm thinking something more subtle is needed, such as "Idea" without explaining it's an acronym for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, for All.

Bill Mc

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Mitch Winkler P.E.(inactive), M.ASCE
Houston, TX
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