Some people have questions about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (since the GOP has corrupted the DEI brand, Rep. Chandra Dillard says the Democratic delegation is now using only the full name when talking about the issue) actually is.
Some confuse DEI with affirmative action. Affirmative action is a policy that creates pathways and opportunities for previously discriminated groups of people to gain acceptance to colleges and universities, or to compete for a job. This is not DEI.
DEI is simply a policy that everyone (diversity) is eligible to compete on an even playing field (equity) without regard to race, creed, color, religion, gender preference, or age etc. (inclusion). Some would call affirmative action discriminatory because it gives a leg up to one group over another. DEI is in many ways the opposite of discrimination as it is intended to allow everyone access. DEI promises only that you get a chance be considered for Harvard, a job at BMW, or admission to The Citadel. Whether or not you are accepted will depend not on your demographics, but on your qualifications.
What DEI does do is increase awareness, encourage people of all demographics, and provide options to and make it possible for everyone to have access to the same opportunities.
In some ways, it is a more current interpretation of “equal opportunity”, as in “Business A is an equal opportunity employer.”
What is the DEI legislation under consideration?
What DEI does do is increase awareness and accessibility to opportunities. With House Bill 3927 those opportunities go away. The DEI bill would prohibit the existence of any DEI program or any DEI staff positions in any state agency. But it doesn’t stop there: Any private business, independent contractor or municipal agency that receives state funding is also regulated under this legislation. That’s a move that enables the state to force policy on private business that it does not have the legal authority to do. Of course, businesses can keep their DEI programs, but not if they want their state contracts.
In the meeting on Monday, Rep. Dillard noted that the DEI hearings in the statehouse were overflowing with people testifying about the importance of the DEI programs and warning of the impact on businesses and communities if those programs are ended. Following the hearing, the Republican committee members were so concerned that they rewrote the bill to tone down several provisions. But, all the way from Washington, came word that President Trump had heard of this and was demanding that the GOP return to the original bill that mirrored the president’s executive order. Courage not being a hallmark of Republican governing, they did so.
Now it’s up to us to put pressure on our Republican senators to vote No on 3927.
Dem Women has a team making phone calls to voters encouraging them to do just that. We are calling from a script, so you will know exactly what to say – unless you prefer your own message. Join us in making these calls and applying crucial pressure on Republican senators as they consider this regressive legislation.
Contact Evelyn Nocella if you are interested in joining the team on this effort.