Attacks on what can be taught in educational institutions have been under way for several years now. What started as a smoke screen attack on Critical Race Theory expanded into “Don’t Say Gay.” Then, quite predictably spread to an attack on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) education and programs. After almost a year-long search for someone to speak on the issue, we finally can present an episode dedicated to the topic called DEI: Does It Work? We heave two guests for this episode. Charmaine Brown is the VP and Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer from United Way Worldwide. David Sotolongo, Senior Director of DEI at Regeneron Pharmeceuticals joins us in the conversation..
Charmaine and David worked in the DEI space for years, long before the issue became a hot football in politics. Both believe real DEI work is ongoing despite all the noise coming from conservative governors and legislators. They recognize pledges made in the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd haven’t been met in full. Yet, many companies and executives have doubled down on their efforts particularly in the face of conservative attacks.
Both David and Charmaine agree DEI efforts are working and the opponents of an inclusive world are feeling threatened. In their view the threat helps explain why the attacks are coming strong and fast. As career DEI experts they urged folks to continue to have hope and to stay the course. We posed the question DEI: Does It Work? Their answer is a resounding : YES!