The Future of DEI Initiatives Amid Political Scrutiny
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives have been under a microscope and vilified recently, especially as discussions intensify with the upcoming presidential election. Conservatives have been critical of DEI programs in higher education and companies, with notable mentions during the Republican National Convention last week. Tennessee Representative Tim Burchett recently made headlines by labeling Vice President Kamala Harris and former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle as “DEI hires,” dismissing their qualifications.
Understanding DEI
DEI stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion, organizational frameworks designed to promote “the fair treatment and full participation of all people,” particularly those historically underrepresented or discriminated against. DEI programs aim to create environments where everyone is welcome, supported, and has the resources to succeed, irrespective of identity, race, or orientation.
The roots of DEI can be traced back to the 1960s with the enactment of affirmative action and equal employment laws. These laws pushed companies to develop diversity training programs to help employees adapt to increasingly integrated office environments.
The Concept of a “DEI Hire”
Burchett’s remarks about Harris and Cheatle referred to initiatives to expand opportunities for women and people of color in workplaces and foster inclusive organizational cultures. During a House Committee on Oversight and Accountability session, Burchett called Cheatle a “DEI horror story” while questioning her response during the assassination attempt against Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump in Pennsylvania.
Cheatle, before being named director, served as the senior director of global security for PepsiCo and spent 27 years in the Secret Service, including as assistant director of the office of protective operations. Burchett used similar language in a CNN interview when discussing Harris, who served as a U.S. senator and the attorney general of California before being elected vice president.
Companies Reassess DEI Programs
Recently, companies like Tractor Supply Company and John Deere have reexamined their DEI programs under pressure campaigns. Last month, Tractor Supply reduced its DEI practices and goals focused on environmental, social, and governance following customer backlash. The changes included:
- No longer submitting data to the Human Rights Campaign
- Refocusing team member engagement groups on mentoring, networking, and supporting the business
- Prioritizing rural America, including agricultural education and veteran causes, and stopping sponsorship of nonbusiness activities like pride festivals and voting campaigns
- Eliminating DEI roles and retiring current DEI goals while ensuring a respectful environment
- Withdrawing carbon emission goals and focusing on land and water conservation
John Deere announced it would audit its policies and cease participation in external social or cultural awareness events after backlash for its diversity hiring targets and sponsoring LGBTQ+ events.
The Effectiveness of DEI Initiatives
Despite the political climate, a survey by the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals and YourCause from Blackbaud revealed that 96% of corporate social impact professionals in 125 major companies report that DEI commitments have either stayed the same (83%) or increased (13%). Carolyn Berkowitz, president and CEO of the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals, said the survey indicates that political opposition has not weakened support for DEI initiatives.
As the debate over DEI continues, it remains to be seen how these programs will evolve and adapt in the face of political scrutiny and changing societal attitudes.
