Provide a summary of the material you have chosen to journal with reference(s).
The New York Times newspaper reports on a movement against diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. The anti-D.E.I. aims to eliminate D.E.I. programs in public universities. The article reveals the playbook and grievances behind one strand in the movement, driven by conservative activists and academics from the Claremont Institute, a think tank closely related to Donald Trump’s movement and Florida’s Governor DeSantis (Nicholas, 2024). The article also exhibits the challenges and backlash the movement faces from the public and the officials.
What did you learn that you did not know before?
I learned that the anti-D.E.I movement has won in some states, such as Texas, Florida, Idaho, and Oklahoma, where new laws have been enacted to prohibit D.E.I. programs from functioning in public universities. I also found out that the movement is driven by a fear of losing cultural and political power to the progressive left and by a belief that D.E.I. programs are divisive, discriminatory, and indoctrinating. In addition, I have learned that the movement has used different strategies, including lobbying, litigation, and media campaigns, to advance its agenda and to influence public perception.
What connections can I make prior to class lectures, readings, discussions, and experiences in other classes?
This topic is related to the course lectures, readings, and discussions on the history and the current state of racial justice, social justice, and human rights in America and globally. I can also relate this topic with my experience in other classes like sociology, psychology, education, law, and politics, which will enable me to discuss various concepts, theories, and evidence on D.E.I. and its impacts on individuals, groups, and societies. Furthermore, I can link this theme to the world trends and challenges of the 21st century, like globalization, immigration, diversity, democracy, injustice, conflict, and cooperation.
What emotions came up with this topic, and how do I manage, express, and cope with these feelings?
The emotion that came up for me when I considered this topic was anger. I was angry with the anti-D.E.I. crusaders who wanted to take down programs that supported racial justice and social equality. I believe that they are driven by racism, bigotry, and ignorance, with the result being academic freedom impinged upon and education for students and faculty members of diverse backgrounds and identities affected. I am also angry with the politicians and officials who allow this movement to continue or encourage it. To manage, express, and deal with these feelings, I plan to participate in D.E.I. programs or campaigns aimed at promoting and defending them. I also intend to Sign petitions, write letters, donate to N.G.O.s that foster the principle of D.E.I., attend rallies, organize events, and volunteer for these organizations or join them if I can.
How does this relate to the work I want to do with clients, organizations, neighbourhoods, and communities?
This topic concerns the work I intend to do with clients, organizations, neighbourhoods, and communities because it affects the challenges, needs, and resources in their environments. Therefore, D.E.I. is not the only issue of education but also social, economic, and political justice and development. D.E.I. programs aim to ensure respect, inclusion, and belonging for all people irrespective of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation status or disability, religious affiliation, or other classifications. They intend to eliminate the historical and socio-structural disparities in marginalization that have been brought about by discrimination so that there would be more opportunities and access for these groups in education, employment, health care, et cetera. Societal benefits of D.E.I. programs also include the promotion of diversity of perspectives, creativity, and innovativeness, as well as social solidarity, are included in these programs too. By learning about this topic, I can become more informed, which will help me improve my knowledge, skills, and values in working with diverse populations and stakeholders and assist in the positive change and transformation of the world.
References
Nicholas Confessore Jan. 20, 2024, America Is Under Attack: Inside the Anti-D.E.I. Crusade. https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/01/20/us/dei-woke-claremont-institute.html?searchResultPosition=1
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