DiscoverDon't Waste the ChaosWhy I Say No to DEI Programs (and What HR Should Do Instead)
Why I Say No to DEI Programs (and What HR Should Do Instead)

Why I Say No to DEI Programs (and What HR Should Do Instead)

Update: 2025-09-23
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Description

What happens when HR touches one of the most controversial workplace topics today? In this episode of Don’t Waste the Chaos, I share my candid take on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs - and why I believe companies don’t need them to build inclusive workplaces.

I’ll walk you through:

  • Why DEI initiatives exploded post-2020, and why many companies are now pulling back
  • The unintended risks of DEI programs (politicization, culture wars, and cancel culture)
  • What employees actually want from leadership instead of slogans and statements
  • Practical, legally sound alternatives every business can implement right now
  • How to embed fairness, equity, and inclusion into the everyday fabric of HR without adding another program or committee

Whether you agree or disagree, this is a conversation we can’t ignore. HR doesn’t need to be political to be effective - it needs to be compliant, consistent, and compassionate.

 Learn more about my program, HR in a Box, for small business owners looking to build protective, inclusive HR foundations without the drama: Salt & Light Advisors | HR Consulting for Small to Mid-Size Businesses

Sign up for my free weekly HR insights: Salt & Light Advisors | HR Consulting for Small to Mid-Size Businesses

Don’t Waste the Chaos is the podcast where bold leadership meets real life.

As a reminder, Kerri is not an attorney, so always consult your own legal counsel when it comes to tackling issues like these in your business.

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Why I Say No to DEI Programs (and What HR Should Do Instead)

Why I Say No to DEI Programs (and What HR Should Do Instead)

Kerri M. Roberts