Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) sits at the forefront of public discourse in 2025. News stories cover companies that scale back DEI programs or face lawsuits related to them. Politicians debate these efforts, and executives make swift decisions in response. But what exactly is DEI, and why does it matter in the workplace?
How DEI Is Portrayed in the News
Media coverage in 2025 presents DEI in contrasting ways. Some outlets praise it as a force for progress, while others view it as needless or harmful. Political and corporate decisions shape much of the narrative.
President Donald Trump’s administration eliminated DEI programs across the federal government. In January 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14151: “Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing.” This order shut down all DEI-related mandates, policies and activities at federal agencies. It also required agencies to submit lists of employees working on DEI or “environmental justice” to the Office of Management and Budget within 60 days.
A separate measure targeted private sector initiatives. Executive Order 14173: “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity” bans federal contracts for organizations that enforce DEI frameworks, effectively barring affirmative action among government contractors.
Nonprofits including the Legal Defense Fund and Lambda Legal challenged these orders in court, arguing that they violate free speech and due process rights by compelling organizations to accept the administration’s viewpoint on DEI. Corporations have responded to the political climate in different ways. Some, like Amazon, Google, Walmart and Meta, cut or ended DEI programs, influenced by new government policies. Others, including Goldman Sachs, Costco and JPMorgan Chase, continue to support their DEI initiatives to create workplaces where employees feel respected.
Understanding DEI: Beyond the Headlines
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) seeks to create fair and respectful environments where people of every background can succeed. It addresses systemic inequalities by promoting representation and removing barriers, especially for those who have historically faced discrimination. DEI’s roots reach back to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, when the Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin. Since then, DEI initiatives became more widely established, with people’s perspectives broadening to consider aspects such as gender identity, sexual orientation and disability.
Defining Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Diversity involves the presence of many identities, such as race, gender, age, religion, disability status and sexual orientation.
- Equity strives for fair treatment and equal opportunities by removing obstacles that have harmed certain groups.
- Inclusion offers an environment where every person is welcomed, respected and able to thrive.
The Tangible Benefits of DEI in the Workforce
Implementing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives yields several advantages for organizations:
- Enhanced Innovation and Creativity: Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, fostering creativity and leading to innovative solutions.
- Improved Employee Engagement and Retention: Inclusive workplaces make employees feel valued, increasing job satisfaction and reducing turnover.
- Positive Financial Performance: Companies with diverse leadership often see better financial outcomes, as varied viewpoints contribute to effective decision-making.
- Broader Talent Pool: Equitable hiring practices attract a wide range of candidates, enhancing the organization’s skill set and competitiveness.
Embracing DEI not only promotes a fair workplace but also drives business success.
Conclusion
DEI continues to spark debate in 2025, yet it offers clear ways to elevate collaboration, foster innovation and increase employee satisfaction. Although political moves and legal battles create hurdles, these foundational principles remain essential for workplaces that aspire to promote fairness and sustainable growth.
Henry Gorsuch is a Journalism Strategic Communications major with a minor in Marketing and can be found on LinkedIn here.