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