Diversity, equity and inclusion programs, the hottest workplace trend a mere three years ago, are now under fire. Once hailed as essential to fostering a more equitable workplace, some now dismiss DEI as performative, arguing these efforts do little to drive real change, and some even say they are discriminatory.
Companies including agricultural-machinery heavyweight John Deere and elite colleges such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are quietly dialing back DEI programs and requirements after taking a supportive stand as recently as 2020. One of the most sought-after jobs on LinkedIn in 2021, diversity officer, has taken a dive.
