The new administration’s executive orders and directives targeting diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) have sparked widespread concern, extending beyond government agencies to private sector companies anxious they may come under federal scrutiny for their DEI initiatives.
Companies that remain faithful to the core intent of DEI, with initiatives that champion fairness and workplace inclusion—while driving tangible business results––are generally welcomed by employees, executives, and shareholders and are unlikely to attract legal challenges. Although some organizations have strayed from DEI’s original intent, most that persist despite recent backlash do so because they believe DEI strengthens the bottom line.
To prepare for intensifying pressure, companies should:
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