Briding Divides: A New Kind of DEI

Recent debates about the "Death of DEI" (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) and the rollback of funding from major companies and governments have spotlighted a critical challenge. Despite good intentions, many DEI initiatives fail to deliver the inclusive workplaces they promise. Some even question whether DEI is still relevant.

Yet the goal remains essential: we all want to be treated fairly, contribute meaningfully, and thrive at work. DEI was meant to ensure just that—fairness, safety, and opportunity for all. But in practice, something has gone astray.

Where DEI Falls Short

Why DEI Needs Rethinking

From our experience as DEI practitioners in both policy and HR, we see three main issues:

Too much symbolism, too little substance

Awareness-raising alone doesn't change workplace dynamics. When DEI becomes mostly about words and workshops, it risks feeling performative.

Over-focus on identity categories

Categorizing people into fixed boxes such as gender and race can unintentionally deepen divides, overlooking the nuances of individual experience and creating an "us vs. them" dynamic.

Too little focus on basic workplace structures

Good DEI starts with good workplace structures. Transparent processes, clear communication, and strong protections against discrimination and harassment must form the foundation.

Back to Basics

Creating Enabling Work Environments

We believe that real inclusion doesn’t begin with categories. It begins with enabling work environments:

• Strong protections against harassment and discrimination

• Fair and transparent processes

• Psychological safety and open dialogue

• Equal access to development and progression

• Inclusive communication practices

We offer thought-provoking talks for organizations to take a fresh look at DEI. Drawing on practical experience and real-world examples, we unpack where DEI has gone off course and what we can do to revive it.

We don’t dismiss DEI—we care about its original goals. But we believe it needs realignment to be effective.

Our talks cover:

• How did we get to "The Death of DEI"

• Why current DEI approaches often fall short

• How overly symbolic or identity-driven efforts can create backlash

• What it takes to build trust and connection across difference

• How to center DEI on fairness, structures, and everyday interactions

Let’s rethink DEI—and start bridging divides.

Curious to Learn More?