A Call for Inclusive Leadership

The recent commencement address at Benedictine College by my beloved Kansas City Chiefs kicker, Harrison Butker, serves as a stark reminder of the challenges we still face in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As a fellow engineer, Butker took the stage and made controversial statements, labeling DEI as "tyranny" and condemning Pride Month as a celebration of "deadly sin." His speech, which received roaring cheers despite a few boos, highlighted a troubling reality: many still misunderstand and resist the basic human dignity principles of DEI.

As a chemical engineer, I am particularly disheartened by this perspective. Engineering, at its core, is about solving problems and improving lives. It thrives on diversity of lived experience, thought, and innovation driven by inclusive practices. To see a fellow engineer dismiss DEI as tyranny is to witness a rejection of these essential values. Jonathan Beane, the NFL’s senior vice president, chief diversity and inclusion officer, told People magazine in a written statement. “The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger.”

I wanted something stronger—clearer.

DEI is not about oppression; it is about recognizing and valuing our differences (diversity), ensuring fairness (equity), and fostering a sense of belonging (inclusion). These principles are crucial for any society or organization that aims to be just and effective. Diversity brings a richness of perspectives, equity ensures that everyone has the opportunity to succeed, and inclusion creates environments where everyone feels valued.

Effective leadership is inclusive, empathetic, and equitable. Leaders who prioritize DEI understand that diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making and innovation. They strive to create environments where all individuals, regardless of their background, can thrive. Leaders are the ones who foster a sense of belonging, which is essential for any team or organization to succeed. These are not signs of weakness but of strength and enlightened leadership.

The dismissal of women's career aspirations as "diabolical lies" and the condemnation of reproductive rights during the speech were also deeply troubling. Women have the right to choose their paths, whether that includes a career, motherhood, or both.* Suggesting otherwise perpetuates harmful stereotypes and ignores the significant contributions women make in all areas of society.

It is telling that most media outlets failed to mention his comparison of DEI to tyranny or referring to Pride and dangerous. This is not good allyship. As a Black woman who values my LGBTQ neighbors, I found the entire speech to be hypocritical.

DEI is Engrained in Football

In the game of football, difference is required to make a successful team. Offensive linemen don’t think like, act like, or perform like safeties or cornerbacks. If you don’t value the differences between football players, you’ll find yourself with a team that just cannot make it to the playoffs. Furthermore, we have all observed teams that had the right ingredients in terms of picking a range of talent for the game only to have those team members lack cohesion and ultimately fail to produce results. Equitable and inclusive environments support obtaining successful outcomes even in Mr. Butker’s profession.

Empathy cannot sit on a bed of ignorance.

True leadership demands understanding and appreciating the experiences and struggles of others. This involves listening, learning, and growing. The speech revealed a lack of understanding and an unwillingness to engage with differing perspectives. This approach leads to division and stagnation, not progress.

I urge all leaders to reconsider their stance on DEI. Leadership is about lifting others up—especially the one who tend to be on the margins of society. It is about creating spaces where everyone can succeed, regardless of their background or identity. We must strive to build a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate world. This is not just a moral imperative but a practical one. Diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments are more innovative, resilient, and successful.

We owe it to ourselves and future generations to embrace these principles. It is time to move beyond outdated and harmful views and embrace a more just and empathetic approach to leadership.

*I cannot believe I have to make this statement.