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The Trump administration has declared war on DEI. It is hard for me to think of an action more mean-spirited or more destructive of what is good.
Diversity, equity and inclusion are noble ideals. Striving for them makes us better people. It isn’t easy, because there are flaws in human nature. But they are essential. They are values that any society must foster if it considers itself to be advanced and civilized.
Admittedly, there are times when the rhetoric and programs intended to encourage DEI may seem counterproductive. But the pursuit of DEI — even if imperfectly conducted — is hardly a threat to national security requiring suppression by the government.
Let’s break it down.
Diversity: Diverse ecosystems and diverse economies are more resilient. Diverse organizations perform better. Monoculture is limiting — and boring.
Equity: This dictates that we all be treated fairly. Does anyone prefer to be treated unfairly?
Inclusion: Does anyone living in the present century — after all we have been taught about universal human brotherhood — still believe there are groups that should be excluded from society? It is in our primitive nature to be tribal, but it is time to exercise our higher faculties to overcome and discard any bigotry in our hearts.
Considering the values derived from our shared Judeo-Christian heritage and the teachings of today’s religious leaders, it is hard to understand why any of this should be controversial.
In any case, a simple song makes the case for diversity and inclusion more effectively than I can.
Michael P. Bacon
Westbrook
