What is DEI?

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

DEI is part of a growing sociopolitical movement that is introducing contentious transformative changes based on fringe social theory to our institutions and throughout our culture, and enacting policies with almost no resistance or checks. The terms woke and Critical Race Theory are often used to describe core tenets of the typical DEI program, but DEI goes way beyond race.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and other terminology often have ambiguous and volatile meanings. They are "politically correct" euphemisms for divisive identity politics.

DEI and related efforts create a culture that encourages people to think of themselves as members of identity groups based on characteristics, like race, gender, or sexual orientation, and to make assumptions from these characteristics when engaging each other. Self-image is broadly prescribed from these identity groups or an "intersection" of multiple identity groups deemed "marginalized" (or oppressed, victimized). Collective participation and unquestionable affirmation in self image are mandatory, with ideas like "non-binary gender". DEI increases division and promotes a culture of petulance, resentment, and victimhood. Society, policies, and institutions are viewed through a lens of "oppressor vs oppressed", or "discriminated" vs "privileged", typically based on a handful of presumptions and prejudices centered around immutable identity.

The proponents and literature of DEI initiatives use a vocabulary that evokes a sense of moral obligation and shame. They appeal to emotion to take advantage of common good will to usher in policies and a culture immersed in the ideology.

To properly adhere to a DEI framework, people and institutions must become active participants in a "fight against injustice". It's considered a moral imperative that everyone is responsible for carrying out the mission of DEI. It's not enough to be "unprejudiced" - individuals and organizations must commit to activism. In fact, common talking points of most DEI programs emphasize the concepts of implicit bias and "microaggressions".

DEI and similar efforts assert that institutions are oppressive and much of society is inherently prejudice. This is used as explanation for disparities in the identity groups that are represented in organizations and positions. Consequently, it forces the pursuit of social justice to be the priority (1, 2) of organizations and incorporated into every possible aspect of its operations. The assertions are stated as obvious and indisputable truths and dissent is risky.

In practice, DEI and related efforts are antagonistic, divisive social activism.

Statements from DEI Advocates

  Refer to the School Board Meetings section on the Resources page for links to comments made by supporters of the DEI program, including district administration, the CEI consulting group, and the district's DEI Task Force.

  The May 20, 2021 School Board Meeting features a presentation and comments from the district's DEI Task Force.

 Racial Justice Definitions - AECF

 Read the open letter urging the district to implement a DEI program.

  Refer to this article for more information about Critical Race Theory (CRT).

  Please refer to the resources page for direct links to policies and literature from these programs.