Let’s talk about the weaponization of DEI, this backlash and demonising of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Since Sept 2024, in the run up to the US elections we see DEI programmes under attack. DEI messages are being buried everywhere, on-and offline on Youtube, Google, Meta and the news. Since Trump came to power, we actively see funding across the world cut severely for Diversity and Equity. The words “women” and “girls” are deemed “unwelcome” and not useable in funding applications. And this is not a domestic issue in the US, this has spread so fast across the world. I hear of cases all the time now in the UK and across Europe.
What we all seem to forget about is the BUSINESS CASE of DEI and all the data we have from around the globe which has been assessed by the biggest consultancies: more diverse and inclusive companies have a better return.
IT IS LUCRATIVE to be inclusive. Your company will make more money if you employ truly diverse employees.
Your company will do better with a diverse workforce that has different experiences and insights. Women-led companies produce a higher return than men-led ones.
We are not here to bash men; we love men. This is about balance and trying not to backstep on all the advances we have made in the last decades.
And let’s not forget, our aid to women around the world makes the world a safer place and a better future, because you know women are the ones disproportionately raising the next generations, so if women are doing well so will the next generations.
We understand that budgets need to be cut and defence spending needs to rise, but there are many ways to Rome. We need well thought out solutions with balance and figuring out which programs have worked really well and are effective so we keep those and cut where we have seen a lower cost benefit ratio.
And it also has to be said that we women are half of the world’s population so we should graduate out of DEI as we are not a minority. We should be seen as serious assets to any company or venture as we bring insights to the table you all need. Women of colour comprise 20% of the US population and 13% of the UK population and we need those voices just as much at all decision-making tables.
Our economies will be stronger, our world a better place, our futures and children’s futures will look stronger and more resilient.
The short sightedness is baffling and deeply upsetting. So you lead with your stories and keep at it people!
We are actively looking to interview economists able to talk about the spending cuts and overall math as well as women able to talk about the recent measures and how they affect women and girls disproprtionately.
Thank you for being here, let us know your views and experiences.
Keep speaking up and keep shining, xStephanie
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