We’ve made it to the end of 2024 and as we look back on the landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) over the past year, it’s important to reflect on both the progress we’ve made and the challenges we faced. Whether you’re an HR director, a DEI advocate, or someone trying to understand what all the recent hub-bub is about, this recap will serve as a quick overview of this year’s headline DEI events and pose as a moment of reflection.
Understanding DEI
At its heart, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, or DEI, is about creating workplaces and communities where people feel valued and have a fair chance to succeed. For organizations, this means crafting policies and fostering cultures that prioritize fairness, equal opportunity, and a sense of belonging that is morally sound and ultimately drives innovation, collaboration, and overall business success.
Key Developments in 2024
Reframing the Conversation
This year, we saw a significant shift in how DEI was used in common vernacular. The term itself has unfortunately gained traction as a derogatory phrase, with some government officials and business leaders using it as a dogwhistle slur. This shift has real consequences in workplaces, as it emboldens critics to dismiss DEI initiatives as unnecessary or divisive. In response, DEI advocates are actively working to call out the “reemergence” of this Southern Strategy tactical play and reframe what DEI truly represents. This reframing focuses on the real-world consequences of a nation built on discrimination. Rather than viewing DEI as a nice-to-have policy, let's emphasize that equality and inclusivity should be fundamental aspects of any workplace or community. We all need to recognize that basic decency, respect, and fair treatment for all individuals are not optional extras, but essential components of a just and productive society.
Legislative Challenges
One of the biggest upsets for DEI in 2024 was of course the proposal of the Dismantle DEI Act sponsored by future VP Vance. As the name suggests, this proposed legislation aims to eliminate all DEI programs within federal agencies by revoking all existing initiatives and prohibiting all federal funding. Currently scheduled for markup in the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, the bill has sparked significant debate around its potential impact on historically excluded communities. Several states, including Florida, Iowa, Texas, and Utah have already passed laws that limit DEI programs.
Additionally, 2024 saw an unprecedented surge in anti-trans legislation, with 669 bills introduced across 43 states and 48 already passed. Women's rights have also faced ongoing challenges this year, with abortion banning laws going into effect in 12 states. These legal developments highlight a fervent attack on marginalized groups, making it all the more imperative to protect the progress we've made in corporate workplaces through DEI initiatives.
Corporate Responses
These legislative and social shifts are creating a normalcy for organizations to defund or downright eliminate their DEI policies without fear of repercussions. Several large companies have made headlines in 2024 for scaling back their DEI efforts including Walmart, who announced a reduction in its DEI initiatives in November. Microsoft and Zoom “laid-off” their dedicated DEI teams. Ford, Lowe’s, Harley-Davidson and Tractor Supply have also rolled back DEI policies, to name a few. With that said, the overall percentage of companies committed to DEI has remained relatively steady. Nearly 70% of organizations continue to see DEI as a fundamental part of their sustainability and business strategies. The study highlights that while some high-profile companies have scaled back their efforts, the majority of organizations, particularly in industries like healthcare and technology, remain steadfast in their commitment. This demonstrates that DEI is not simply a passing trend but a critical component of fostering innovation, resilience, and long-term success.
Citizen Responses
Amidst the legislative and corporate challenges faced by DEI in 2024, citizens have emerged as powerful advocates, organizers, and voices for change. The end of 2024 brings national discourse regarding the chasm between working-class struggles and elite interests, specifically regarding healthcare insurance, which is directly intertwined with employment. While grassroots movements may seem removed from corporate boardrooms, they often shape the cultural and social context in which businesses operate.
This year, community-led initiatives played a pivotal role in countering the rollback of DEI policies. Local advocacy groups mobilized to support marginalized communities impacted by legislation targeting LGBTQ+ rights, women’s reproductive health, and racial equity. For instance, Equality Texas has been at the forefront of resisting anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, offering resources and advocacy for affected individuals. Similarly, grassroots efforts like the Midwest Access Coalition have stepped up to provide travel and support for people seeking reproductive healthcare in restrictive states. On the racial equity front, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund has continued its critical work, particularly in challenging voter suppression laws and advocating for fair redistricting efforts to ensure equitable political representation for communities of color.
For organizations, these civilian efforts offer a roadmap: align with community values, listen to employee concerns, and actively contribute to broader societal equity. Doing so enhances reputation, builds trust, and ensures that DEI efforts are not isolated to internal policies but reflect a commitment to creating a better society overall.
Notable Successes
Despite the obstacles faced this year, there were also encouraging developments worth celebrating. Following Colorado, several states, including Virginia, Maryland, Illinois, and California, took significant steps toward fairness by addressing legacy admissions in higher education. These actions make college admissions more equitable, and directly impact workplaces by creating a more equitable pipeline for talent, ensuring that candidates have access to opportunities previously hindered by systemic barriers. The success of these initiatives provides a valuable lesson for DEI advocates, showing that targeted legislative efforts lead to results even in challenging political climates.
As we wrap up our reflection on DEI in 2024, it's clear that the landscape has been marked by significant challenges and setbacks. From legislative attacks to corporate rollbacks, DEI initiatives face unprecedented pressure. The good news is that many organizations, communities, and individuals remain deeply committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion despite these challenges. Looking ahead to 2025, it's crucial that we remain vigilant and proactive in our approach to DEI. The challenges we've faced this year underscore the importance of reframing DEI not as an optional policy, but as a fundamental aspect of creating fair, productive, and innovative workplaces.
If you're ready to strengthen the DEI policies in your workplace, book a free discovery call with us to discuss your individualized options. Let’s start 2025 off strong, together.
Comments