Diversiology Insiders Report - Words Matter, Work Matters, We Still Matter
Theme: DEI Under Fire — And Still Fighting Back The attacks on DEI are becoming more aggressive — and more coordinated. The Department of Justice is now using the False Claims Act to scrutinize DEI policies, signaling a federal-level shift that could have wide ripple effects. At the same time, the Trump campaign and aligned state lawmakers are escalating efforts to dismantle DEI infrastructure, with lawsuits, executive orders, and public pressure campaigns leading to thousands of lost jobs, as documented in this NPR report. Inside the workplace, it’s not just about politics — it’s personal. New research shows AI hiring tools are replicating bias, discriminating against people with headscarves and Black-sounding names. At the same time, corporations like Target are citing DEI “headwinds” as they report earnings drops and leadership exits. And yet, amidst the fear and retraction, some leaders are pushing for evolution—not erasure. Fast Company’s piece on persona-driven diversity training reframes learning as human-centered, not compliance-based. And CHROs interviewed by SHRM are proving that inclusive strategy still drives results—when it's rooted in clarity, not caution. Key Reflection Question: Rocki’s Take:
Resources You Can Use📚 Practitioner Insight + 🛠️ Tools You Can UseMonthly Theme: Mental Health is a DEI Issue Let’s be real — the language we use around mental health at work can either open doors or quietly build walls. That’s why I wrote Talking About Mental Health at Work: Why Language Matters More Than You Think. Casual phrases like “He’s totally OCD” or “I’m having a bipolar day” often go unchecked — but they can reinforce stigma in ways that leave people feeling invisible or unsafe. This isn’t about policing language — it’s about helping our leaders learn to lead with more care, more consciousness, and more courage. In the article, I introduce a simple tool to support that shift: the 3-Point Language Lens, designed to help you pause and reflect in the moment. Ask yourself:
We don’t need another awareness campaign. We need thoughtful, everyday leadership — and it starts with the words we choose. Coming Soon!!Something big is coming. Actually… three big things. We’re gearing up to announce a powerful new partnership that will fuel our monthly Inclusive Insights Panel. We’re also putting the final touches on our very first Practitioners’ Perspective Report, dropping this June. And yes — Grown Woman Wednesday is making a comeback, kicking off with the fierce and fearless Heather Bussing. You’ll want to be in the room for all of it. Stay tuned — more details dropping soon. 🙌 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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