Recent federal-level decisions have brought Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) into sharper focus again—and for many, under renewed scrutiny. If you're navigating how to respond as a mission-driven organization or leader, especially at this crossroads moment, here are the questions you should ask:
• How will these policy changes impact your public and private partnerships?
• How will your DEI initiatives face new external pressures or reduced funding?
• How can your organization protect your values and commitments in an increasingly polarized environment?
Here’s the thing: the essence of DEI isn’t in the acronym. It’s in the value that inclusive cultures, equitable opportunities, and diverse perspectives drive — and values that have been shown to create stronger, more sustainable organizations. In fact, there are myriad of studies that point to "diversity training" alone being both inadequate and causal to intra-organizational rifts. So, centering your organization on the values you want to live, and allowing your operations to reflect them, can run the gamut of recruiting new staff through creating a culture of respect, dignity, and inclusion.
The question is not whether you should step back or stay the course. The question is about how to authentically align these values with your mission and communicate them meaningfully to your constituents, donors, staff, and stakeholders.
I’ve seen many for-profit organizations with a strong grounding in who they are, and a generative mindset to how that matures over time, not let inauthentic pressure dissuade them from what they know is right for their business and their people (looking at you, Costco, JP Morgan, and Goldman Sachs).
At Three Little Birds Agency and Benevolent Tech, we believe this moment isn’t about retreating, but refining.
Organizations that lead with clarity, empathy, and integrity can transform challenges into opportunities for deeper connection with their audiences. It’s not about labels or what you call it — it's about the devil-in-the-details execution of it.
This is the time to:
You don’t need to abandon your values or your mission to weather political shifts. Instead, use this as a chance to lead authentically and define your narrative.
If you’re rethinking how to align your systems, brand, and communications with your values, we’re here to help. Let’s make your mission the center of your story—and your systems the enabler of your vision.
https://apnews.com/article/dei-trump-executive-order-diversity-834a241a60ee92722ef2443b62572540