Why NOW is the time to Double Down on DEI

 In 2020, the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors underwent a profound racial awakening, spurred by the collective reckoning with systemic injustice and inequality. This awakening ignited a renewed and intensified commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across these sectors. Organizations of all sizes and missions began to see DEI not as an optional add-on, but as a vital framework for creating a more just and equitable society. The movement gained momentum, with leaders and practitioners embracing DEI as a core value that informed everything from grantmaking strategies to organizational culture.

However, this progress is now facing significant challenges. The Supreme Court's June 2023 ruling in SFFA v. Harvard/UNC, which struck down affirmative action in college admissions, has sent shockwaves through the social sector. This decision has cast a shadow over DEI initiatives, causing some organizations to hesitate, reconsider, or, in the worst cases, even scale back their commitments to equity and inclusion. 

It is because of this uncertainty and fear that NOW is the time to double down on DEI. The challenges we face today only underscore the critical importance of equity and inclusion in our work. The Supreme Court ruling does not change the fundamental need for diverse voices and perspectives to shape our communities, institutions, and the future we all share. On the contrary, it highlights the urgency of continuing to fight for these principles in every aspect of our work. In moments of adversity, our commitment to DEI must become stronger, more resilient, and more innovative, ensuring that the progress we've made does not falter but instead continues to grow.

At FutureGood, we facilitate a network of brilliant philanthropic leaders who are leading DEI change efforts at their foundations. Four of our DEI Leaders will bring their expertise to you in September, and we want you to join this discussion: 

Webinar: "Why NOW is the Time to Double Down on DEI," 

Date/Time: Tuesday, September 3, at 2:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM PT

The panel includes Margie Jo Eun Joo Andreason, Justice Equity Diversity Inclusion Director at the Northwest Area Foundation; Surabhi Pandit, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Engagement at the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan; Roshell R. Rinkins, Vice President/Grants Administration and Chief DEI Officer at the Knight Foundation; and Joe Scantlebury, President & CEO of Living Cities, Advancing Racial & Economic Justice. The discussion will be moderated by Trista Harris, philanthropic futurist and president of FutureGood.

Don’t miss out on this crucial discussion—register today for our free webinar and let’s keep the momentum going together!