๐ฅ๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐๐๐ซ ๐ ๐ข๐ซ๐ – Even Though You ๐efinitely ๐arned ๐t!
I couldn’t help but say something on this topic.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, once at the core of corporate social responsibility, are now facing a growing backlash. What was once a celebrated movement aimed at creating more inclusive workplaces has become a polarizing topic, with critics questioning its effectiveness and even its legitimacy. Some organizations have even eliminated their DEI departments. It’s like one step forward, two steps back!
The criticism has intensified since Vice President Kamala Harris was labeled a “DEI hire” during her presidential campaign. Imagine that? This derogatory term is a not-so-thinly veiled attempt to dismiss her qualifications and undermine her achievements. This tactic that has also been used in the workplace against many women, Black women in particular, and people of colour.
When you hear such snide remarks, itโs often a deflection tactic that critics use to invalidate people’s qualifications and experiences, avoid substantive discussions, and shift focus away from real issues. They don’t think of how exceptionally hard you had to work to earn that promotion or that seat at the table.
Rather than being discouraged, learn to challenge these misconceptions, stand firm behind your accomplishments and contributions, and confidently assert that you โDefinitely Earned Itโ, according to Rep. Jasmine Crockett. It was not handed to you on a silver platter.
This DEI journey towards a truly inclusive workplace comes with obstacles, but organizations have the power to create environments where everyone feels valued and respected. They should continue to make DEI an integral part of their strategy, not something they do for optics. It’s too easy to backtrack when the fire gets hot.
From an individual perspective, you cannot do it on your own. You need genuine allies who will speak up even when it might be uncomfortable. When allies donโt speak up, their silence can be interpreted as consent. True allies stand by their convictions even when the going gets rough.
๐๐๐ฒ ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ญ๐๐ ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฉ ๐๐จ๐ฎ ๐๐๐๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ:
๐Claim your space: Donโt allow anyone to demean, denigrate, deride, dismiss or diminish who you are.
๐Own your accomplishments: Celebrate your hard work and achievements without apology.
๐Don’t let criticism silence you: Invariably, you will be criticized, but your voice matters. Get comfortable speaking up for yourself and others.
๐Build a strong support network: Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your potential.
๐Educate others: Use every opportunity you get to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about DEI.
๐Remind your critics that, for you DEI means โI Definitely Earned Itโ!
Let’s embrace DEI for the value it brings, and don’t subscribe to negative stereotypes.
