Shared Humanity: DEI is more the policies and social trends.

A question has been echoing through the halls of organizations, schools, and public forums alike: Will Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) go away? This inquiry, though seemingly straightforward, underscores a profound misunderstanding of the crucial role DEI plays in fostering humane and just societies. It's not merely a set of policies or a trend but the very fabric that weaves together the rich tapestry of our shared humanity. To ponder the existence of DEI is to question the necessity of empathy, understanding, and fairness in our interactions. The annals of history are stained with the dark chapters of slavery, the Holocaust, Jim Crow laws, child labor, and the systemic oppression of women—each a glaring testament to the catastrophic outcomes when the principles of DEI are absent. These periods of inhumanity did not merely arise from a vacuum but from a deliberate neglect of the diverse needs, rights, and dignity of all individuals. Through the lens of these historical atrocities, it becomes clear that the essence of DEI is not an optional add-on to our societal framework but a fundamental requirement for preventing the repetition of past injustices and for paving the way toward a more equitable and inclusive future. This essay argues that, far from being dispensable, DEI is indispensable to our collective well-being and societal progress. It is a beacon that guides us away from the reefs of discrimination and towards the open waters of mutual respect and understanding.

The discourse surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has intensified, with some questioning its necessity and future in our society. However, the real question should not be whether DEI will disappear, but rather how we can afford to operate without it. The essence of DEI lies not in abstract policies or quotas but in the fundamental aspect of humanity that underpins it. History has repeatedly shown the dire consequences of neglecting this humanistic approach; from the brutalities of slavery and the Holocaust to the injustices of Jim Crow laws, child labor, and gender oppression, the thread that connects these dark chapters is the absence of humane treatment and the principles embodied in DEI. Each of these historical atrocities underscores what happens when diversity is not embraced, equity is overlooked, and inclusion is disregarded. At its core, DEI is about recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, fostering an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This is not merely a nice-to-have; it's a must-have for any society that aspires to be just and equitable. The challenges against DEI today are not just an attack on a set of principles but an affront to our collective humanity. As we move forward, it is imperative that we recommit ourselves to these values, understanding that the strength of our society lies in our ability to embrace our differences and ensure that everyone—regardless of their background—has the chance to succeed.

To illustrate the intrinsic connection between DEI and our shared humanity, we need only examine the severe consequences wrought by its absence throughout history. The inhumanity of slavery, for instance, stripped millions of their fundamental rights and dignity solely based on racial differences, leading to long-lasting trauma that echoes through generations (Howard, 2013). Similarly, the Holocaust epitomizes the catastrophic results of extreme exclusion and inequality; the systematic extermination of six million Jews underscored how devaluing diversity can lead to unparalleled cruelty. Jim Crow laws further entrenched racial inequities by legally mandating segregation and discrimination against African Americans, while child labor practices stripped away the innocence and potential futures of countless young lives in pursuit of profit. Additionally, women's oppression exemplifies a long-standing denial of equity and inclusion that has hindered progress not only for women but for society as a whole. Neglecting DEI fundamentally diminishes human dignity—a concept Howard (2013) elaborates on when discussing the broader implications of societal values. In light of these historical atrocities, it becomes apparent that DEI is not merely a modern-day moral compass but an essential framework for preventing such atrocities from reoccurring. Upholding DEI principles ensures that every individual is valued and respected, fostering collective well-being and societal advancement. Thus, rather than contemplating its removal or questioning its relevance today, we must recognize that upholding DEI is synonymous with preserving our humanity.

In the final analysis, the discourse on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) transcends mere policy debates or fleeting societal trends; it touches the very essence of who we are as a collective humanity. The historical tapestry of human suffering and injustice, woven from threads of intolerance and inequality, starkly illustrates the catastrophic outcomes of sidelining DEI principles. It is evident, therefore, that DEI is not an optional societal embellishment but a critical pillar for constructing a future that is just, equitable, and inclusive. This essay has not only sought to defend the indispensability of DEI in our societal fabric but also to underscore its role as the cornerstone of humane and progressive societies. As we stand at the crossroads of history, the path forward must be paved with a renewed commitment to these principles, recognizing that our strength and prosperity as a society are inextricably linked to our ability to embrace diversity, ensure equity, and foster inclusion. The question, therefore, is not whether DEI will become obsolete, but how we can afford not to weave these fundamental human values into the very core of our societal existence. Let us, then, move forward with the conviction that our collective well-being and the legacy we leave for future generations hinge on our commitment to these principles. The future of DEI is not an uncertainty to dread but a promise to fulfill, marking our journey towards a world where every individual is valued, heard, and empowered.

Dr. Terry Jackson is Executive Advisor, Thought Leader Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coach, Top 10 Global Mentor, and Change Leadership Architect. Dr. Jackson partners with Executives and Organizations to align Strategy, People and Processes to optimize and sustain Peak Business Performance.

Work Cited: Imago Dei: Human dignity in ecumenical perspectivehttps://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=49Rr38D9M0MC&oi=fnd&pg=PP6&dq=%5C%22%5C%22DEI:+A+Vital+Element+in+Preserving+Human+Dignity%5C%22%5C%22&ots=K2UUwUER__&sig=xE0Hgzu47q7LTvi7StQkXox_YkY