Run – But You Can’t Outrun the World’s Growing Diversity
"Diversity is not a problem to be solved; it is the essence of humanity that must be embraced. Efforts to deny or dismantle it only reveal the fear of those unwilling to grow." - Effenus Henderson
The world is an ever-evolving mosaic of cultures, ideas, and identities. Diversity is not an anomaly; it is the default condition of humanity. Yet, there are those who believe that diversity is a threat rather than a strength. These individuals, like attack dogs, bark loudly against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, convinced that these principles are detrimental to society. But their arguments reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of the concept. Diversity is not a choice; it is an inherent aspect of human existence. As long as more than one human exists on this planet, diversity will remain a cornerstone of our shared humanity.
Some may try to run—to dismantle DEI efforts, to erase the processes, practices, and systems that create fairness and opportunity. But this is a futile endeavor. Fairness and opportunity are not mere policies; they are values embedded in the fabric of equitable societies. Attempting to deny these values is not only a fallacy but an act of willful ignorance. “Run” all you want, but you cannot escape the truth: diversity is here, and it is unrelenting.
The Fallacy of Denial
Anti-DEI proponents often claim that focusing on diversity divides us, that it erodes meritocracy, or that it threatens traditional values. But let’s be clear: the “brand” of diversity they accept often excludes anyone who does not fit their narrow framework. Their version of diversity is selective, curated to maintain power structures that serve the few at the expense of the many. By convincing people to ignore or devalue diversity, they are not advocating for unity; they are endorsing exclusion.
As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Denying diversity and dismantling DEI efforts perpetuates injustice. It seeks to strip marginalized groups of their voices, opportunities, and humanity. This resistance to change is rooted in fear—fear of losing privilege, fear of confronting uncomfortable truths, and fear of sharing power. But fear is not a sustainable strategy.
The Challenge for DEI Practitioners
For DEI practitioners, advocating for change in systems resistant to transformation is a daunting task. It can feel like pushing a boulder uphill while being met with skepticism, hostility, or outright sabotage. Yet, change is possible. It requires persistence, strategy, and an unwavering belief in the value of inclusion.
Gandhi’s words ring true: “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.” The journey of DEI work follows this trajectory. Resistance is not a sign of failure; it is a sign of progress. The louder the opposition, the clearer it becomes that the status quo is being disrupted.
Moving Toward Sustainability
Real, sustainable change begins with acknowledging the intrinsic value of diversity. It is not a threat to be neutralized but a strength to be leveraged. Systems of oppression thrive on division and denial, but they crumble in the face of unity and truth. As Malcolm X stated, “Truth is on the side of the oppressed.” Recognizing and embracing diversity is an act of truth-telling, a declaration that every human being deserves dignity, respect, and opportunity.
Conclusion
To those who resist diversity: you can run, but you cannot escape it. The world’s growing diversity is not a trend or a fleeting phenomenon; it is a fundamental aspect of life. Attempts to dismantle DEI efforts are not just futile but self-defeating, for fairness and equity benefit all of us.
DEI practitioners must continue their work with passion and determination, knowing that progress is both possible and inevitable. Change is not easy, but it is necessary. And for those on the journey, let us remember the words of Dr. King: “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”