In a time when progress often feels like a tug-of-war between forward movement and backlash, nonprofits find themselves at the center of a critical conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Recent political shifts and ongoing debates over the purpose and intent of DEI initiatives have placed these efforts under intense scrutiny. As the ripple effects of presidential executive orders and broader societal tensions continue to unfold, the importance of embedding DEI—and its expanded framework of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA)—has come under fire. Many organizations now face difficult questions: Should they scale back their DEI efforts to avoid controversy? Should they adopt a quieter approach to maintain funding or public support? The answer must be a resounding "no." Here’s why nonprofits must remain steadfast in their commitment to DEI and IDEA, even when the waters are choppy. 

I feel compelled to write about an experience that, to me, painfully highlights the stark realities of privilege –– particularly how different the world is for those who have it.  Like many other metropolitan areas, Dallas is a tale of two cities. The northern part is home to some of the fastest-growing business sectors in the country, and five of its suburbs are among the wealthiest in the state. Southern Dallas embodies a much different story. Throughout its history, its residents have faced significant obstacles, and because of Jim Crow laws and redlining — the government-backed practice of denying loans, mortgages and other services based on a neighborhood’s demographics — they were cut off from the growth happening elsewhere in the city. What resulted was a systemic lack of resources and entrenched poverty. 

In the evolving landscape of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), staying updated on legal developments is critical. In June 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in higher education, stating that these institutions can no longer use race as part of the decision-making criteria for admissions. While this move is specific to higher education, the potential implications for nonprofit practices and philanthropic initiatives are currently being tested in court. Panelists from WISE and Kanarys discussed key takeaways from the ruling and what nonprofits should do next as they continue to strive for inclusion, belonging and meaningful impact.