The Fight For Inclusion Continues

From federal funding freezes to major corporations abandoning diversity and incluison commitments, the fight for inclusion is far from over. Yet, there are signs of hope—legal challenges are pushing back, and consumers continue to support businesses that uphold the values of diversity and inclusion.

Here are some of the latest developments, the wins and setbacks, and why DEI remains a critical issue for both Canada and the U.S.

February is Black History Month in Canada and In the United States (Kind of?)

Even though he signed the order to proclaim February as Black History Month, like every other president before him, President Trump’s administration has also taken steps that contradict this recognition.

A pause was ordered a pause on all activities and events related to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Black History Month, Juneteenth, LGBTQ Pride Month, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and other "special observances" to comply with one of Trump's Executive Orders.

Meanwhile, in Canada, Black History Month is actively being celebrated.

The Good

Funding Freeze on DEI Blocked

A federal judge has issued a 30-day restraining order blocking President Donald Trump's attempt to freeze funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and accessibility programs.

The freeze disrupted funding for critical programs like healthcare, childcare, emergency shelters, and scientific research.

The order followed a lawsuit filed by Democracy Forward on behalf of organizations such as SAGE, which advocates for LGBTQ+ elders.
Source: LGBTQ Nation

Data Shows Consumers Prefer Companies Committed to Inclusion

Recent data indicates a growing consumer preference for companies that maintain their diversity, equity, and inclusion commitments. Despite some large corporations succumbing to right-wing pressures to scale back their inclusion efforts, support for companies reducing or eliminating their diversity, equity and inclusion programs has declined.

A Morning Consult poll found that public support dropped for companies decreasing their commitment to inclusion. This suggests that companies sticking to their values could benefit financially.

Saying the Words - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Makes a Difference

When we say “DEI” instead of diversity, equity, and inclusion, we strip these words of their power. These aren’t just corporate buzzwords—they represent real people, real struggles, and real change.

Diversity is about seeing and valuing differences. Equity is about fairness and removing barriers. Inclusion is about creating spaces where everyone belongs. When we reduce the words to an acronym, we risk making them feel like a checkbox instead of a call to action.

If we truly believe in these values, we need to say the words—because words have power. More on saying the words.

@bilingualvanessa

Let us hear you! 👂😇 #dei #diversity #equity #inclusion

The Bad

Google Ditches Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Google is the latest major U.S. company to drop its diversity, equity, and inclusion recruitment targets after a review of its corporate policies. This decision comes amid growing attacks on DEI programs, particularly by U.S. President Donald Trump and his allies. Google is also reevaluating other aspects of its DEI initiatives.
Source: BBC News

Rollback of DEI Programs Threatens Underrepresented People

Experts worry that companies might be less inclined to hire or promote non-White individuals due to shifting perceptions. This could negatively affect the advancement of women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ employees, leading to frustration and talent loss. Employees from underserved communities may seek opportunities elsewhere if they feel undervalued, or they’ll suffer in silence.
Source: CNN 

The Take

There’s growing pushback against efforts to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, with legal challenges and increasing consumer support for companies that maintain inclusion commitments.

While much of the ‘anti-DEI’ focus is in the U.S., it’s important to recognize that American culture often influences Canadian society. As such, Canadian leaders must stay informed about U.S. developments. 

The struggle can be tough on mental health, with so many unknowns and a constant lack of recognition for the real challenges faced by underrepresented groups

I suppose we don't know yet, but we can see that the divisiveness in the U.S. seems to have sparked a new sense of unity in Canada.

For anyone wanting a critical perspective on the concept of power—something central to DEI—Don’t Believe Him is a must-read.

Diversity and inclusion, always.

Shauna

👋🏽 I’m Shauna Cole. Founder of hirediverse.ca, Canada’s inclusive job board.

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