Navigating the Changing Landscape of DEI – Insights from Episode 152

Hey Inclusive AF Fam,

We’re back this week with Episode 152 of The Inclusive AF Podcast, and whew—this one’s packed with timely insights and a little bit of “real talk” you won’t want to miss.

In Case You Missed It:
Your hosts Jackye Clayton and Katee Van Horn dove into the recent moves by the current administration to scrutinize and (in some cases) dismantle DEI initiatives—focusing especially on the legal sector and the ripple effect across industries and communities.

Here’s What We Covered:

• DEI Under the Microscope: The EEOC has launched investigations into 20 major law firms’ diversity practices. Law firms are responding—sometimes by backing away from employee groups altogether out of fear of legal risk.

• The Impact on Inclusion: With some organizations scrambling to “play it safe,” there’s a real danger that inclusion gets sidelined. Jackye and Katee both ask: Who will step up and stand for true equity when things get uncomfortable?

• Federal vs. State Oversight: We unpacked how shifting oversight from the federal to the state level often undermines funding and creates bigger disparities for already-marginalized groups—especially in education. When the feds step back, history shows that disadvantaged communities bear the brunt.

• Advice for DEI Pros: It’s a tightrope walk right now. Legal compliance is crucial, but Katee reminds us not to lose sight of the human impact: “Don’t sell your soul to the devil.” Knowledge-sharing, legal expertise, and peer support are musts in this climate.

• The Good News: Not everyone is stepping back! Some law firms—shoutout to the Elias Law Group—are standing firm and refusing to compromise clients or values even under pressure.

Quick Takeaways:

• Stay connected with your professional DEI networks for insights and support.

• Consult with experts who really know DEI compliance—don’t just default to “stop the program.”

• Advocating for inclusion isn’t just about hiring practices—it’s about sustaining cultures where everyone can belong.

• Don’t retreat before you’ve even stepped up to advocate. Courage matters now more than ever.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: We want to know what’s on your mind. Is there a topic or trend we should unpack on a future episode? Hit reply and let us know!

Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss these important conversations.

Until next time,
Katee & Jackye