What does DEI(A) mean?

There has been a lot of back and forth about DEI lately, so what better time to define what DEI really means…

According to the ACLU:

“Diversity ensures representation among qualified persons across race, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, socioeconomic status, military status, shared ancestry, parental status, persons who live in rural communities, and more so that institutions reflect the communities they serve.

  • Equity recognizes that inequalities exist and works to dismantle the barriers that disproportionately harm marginalized communities, ensuring fairness in access to resources and opportunities.

  • Inclusion ensures that institutions are not just diverse, but that all individuals, especially those historically excluded, can fully participate and contribute without fear of discrimination or bias.

  • Accessibility expands opportunities for individuals of all abilities by removing physical, technological, and systemic barriers that may prevent full participation in society through reasonable accommodations, inclusive work and public spaces, and more.”

https://www.aclu.org/news/racial-justice/dei-and-accessibility-explained

What are some of the things in the workplace that DEI covers?

  • Hiring and retention

  • Training and Development

  • Mentoring and Sponsorship

  • Inclusive Policies and Procedures

  • Employee Resource Groups

  • Inclusive Language and communication

DEI policies help improve employee engagement, reduce turnover, and foster innovation.

Want to learn more? Check out the websites below!

  • https://www.npr.org/2025/03/05/nx-s1-5318671/how-did-dei-become-part-of-a-larger-political-agenda-and-a-slur

  • https://www.aclu.org/news/racial-justice/dei-and-accessibility-explained

How will current actions specifically affect people with disabilities? See below:

  • https://www.aapd.com/explaining-deia-recent-actions/

Daniel Holmes