Diversiology Insiders Report - Resilience Over Optics: Your Insider Look at DEI’s Crossroads
This past week, the tension between generational shifts, DEI rollbacks, and leadership accountability has been impossible to ignore. Psychology Today highlighted the hidden bias older generations often hold against young workers (The Hidden Bias That Makes You Criticize Young People), while new research shows Gen Z won't even consider a job without salary transparency (Gen Z won't even consider a job if an employer doesn't mention this during the interview process). At the same time, political winds are intensifying: former President Trump called for a move away from DEI in education (Trump says US education is getting out of DEI) and PBS shuttered its DEI office (PBS Closes DEI Office After Trump Executive Order). Meanwhile, thought leaders warn: reducing DEI to a buzzword weakens its true purpose (Reducing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to a Catchphrase Undermines Its True Purpose). Heres' A Question: What one change you can make in your work to bridge generational gaps and lead through political headwinds? My Take? Real leadership isn't tested when everything is easy — it's defined when the ground under you starts shifting.
Special AnnouncementComing Soon: DEI at a Crossroads: Resilience, Resources, and the Road Ahead! Our brand new report, built from real data collected from DEI practitioners, allies, and ERG leaders across industries, dives deep into how budget cuts, leadership gaps, political backlash — and yes, raw resilience — are shaping the future of DEI work. If you’re already part of our community, you’re getting an exclusive sneak peek on May 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM. If you've been thinking, "I really need to join," — now is the time. Join us here. Practitioner InsightThe Real Crossroads of Diversity WorkIn today's climate, organizations are making hard choices about DEI — and those choices reveal everything. Some are retreating quietly, pulling back initiatives to avoid controversy and conflict. Some are keeping up appearances, posting statements and holding celebrations while stripping away real authority, resources, and accountability. But the ones shaping the future? They’re doubling down — reinforcing DEI with real strategy, solid structure, and authentic support. This isn't about optics anymore. It's about operational courage. During Diversity Month, it’s critical for DEI practitioners to understand the crossroads we're standing at. No fluff. No spin. Just truth: the organizations that view DEI as essential to resilience and competitive advantage will emerge stronger. The ones treating it as optional will falter — and lose trust along the way. Resilient leaders aren’t just celebrating diversity this month — they’re protecting it, funding it, and evolving it. And if you aren't working for a resilient leader, focus on your people — and explore pragmatic solutions that help you keep the work alive and moving forward. Tools You Can UseThis week’s tool is the DEI Alignment Playbook — and it couldn’t come at a better time. Building meaningful impact in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work requires more than good intentions — it demands personal clarity, intentional action, and ongoing alignment. Whether you're a practitioner, an ally, or an ERG leader, this playbook offers a focused framework to define your identity, ground yourself in your core beliefs, understand your stakeholders, and take aligned action. This is a living tool. Revisit it often as your role, beliefs, and commitments evolve — because resilient leadership means growing with the moment, not getting stuck in yesterday’s strategy. Weekly SpotlightA recent Grown Woman Wednesday episode featuring Amira Barger was a bold reminder that niceness has a cost — and sometimes that cost is our leadership, our truth, and our impact. We’re featuring the brilliant Amira Barger, whose upcoming book The Price of Nice calls out the lie behind performative politeness. "Niceness is not free. It comes at a very steep price... It’s a velvet glove over an iron fist. It stifles dissent. And dissent is leadership. Dissent is patriotic. Dissent is what we need more of." — Amira Barger In this community, we don’t shrink. We lead. We dissent. We make change. 📚 Pre-order The Price of Nice here 🎥 Watch the full Grown Woman Wednesday episode here 🙌 Stay Engaged, Stay Inspired!As we move through a shifting landscape, let’s remember: clarity, courage, and connection are our greatest assets. Keep leading with resilience, keep pushing past performative gestures, and keep showing up for the real work. Drop me a note anytime — I love hearing from you. Share your feedback, your reflections, or just say hi! Wishing you an awesome and productive week ahead.
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