Many leaders are hesitant to talk about DEI right now, worried about saying the wrong thing. But the real risk? Saying nothing at all.
Employees are paying close attention to the messages they receive from leadership - and silence sends a strong message. They want to know that the company is expressly committed to creating a safe, stable, and thriving workplace. They need to hear this now more than ever.
Organizations can build trust and engagement by reinforcing the core essence of what DEI aims to achieve - not as a separate initiative, but as an integral part of shaping a culture where everyone can succeed. DEI has always been about creating fair, supportive environments where all employees can do their best work. At its core, it's good for people and it's good for business.
In the midst of this constructed chaos across America, what hasn't changed is that DEI remains a force for good.
Fairness, respect, and equal opportunity aren't just ethical imperatives, they're business imperatives. Despite the headlines about DEI being dismantled, many organizations are standing strong in their commitment. Understanding the legal landscape is key. Companies should engage their legal counsel as they ensure their approach is anchored in the principle of leveling, not lifting (ensuring fairness and opportunity for all rather than elevating one group at the expense of another), and to assess how they can continue to advance this work.
For ongoing legal insights, these resources can help organizations stay informed:
Now is the time to communicate your commitment with clarity and conviction.
This moment calls for confident communication that demonstrates stability, strategy, and strength. Leaders must be proactive in their messaging, reinforcing that their commitment to organizational health remains rooted in the outcomes that DEI was always meant to achieve. Companies should build top-down messaging that clarifies how their ongoing culture-shaping work is directly connected to their mission. They should equip their leaders with concise messages they can rely on to reinforce the company’s commitment to their people and ensure consistency across the organization.
1. Acknowledge the External Environment While Creating Internal Clarity
"We acknowledge the shifts happening around us, and our commitment to fairness, respect, and a thriving workplace remains firm."
2. Reiterate Who You Are as an Organization
"What we stand for isn't changing. We believe in our purpose and live by our values. Our people and our customers matter deeply to us."
3. Focus on Fairness and Shared Success
"This work benefits all of us. DEI has always been about ensuring everyone can contribute at their fullest potential to best support the people we serve."
4. Engage Employees as Active Contributors
"Culture isn’t a top-down directive, it’s something we all build together, through our daily actions and shared commitment."
5. Reinforce the Long-Term Investment in a Thriving Workplace
"We are investing in the future by continuing to ensure every employee has the support needed to do their best work."
Employees - and customers - are watching for signals that this work still matters.
They want to see that the company is stable in its values and steadfast in its commitment to helping people thrive.
Now is not the time to go silent. Instead, it’s time to take charge of the message and elevate the conversation. Use the opportunity to ground DEI in shared values, universal fairness, and measurable impact. When done effectively, this approach not only strengthens trust but also creates the stability your organization needs to navigate uncertainty and drive long-term success.
Need Support? If you’re navigating DEI communications and want to ensure your messaging is aligned and effective, we’re here to help. Reach out for support and let’s shape the path forward—together.