Democracy 101: Trusting Science and Avoiding DEI Censorship

Abstract

The Trump presidential administration has implemented executive orders and promoted anti-DEI legislation that threaten the state of democracy in the United States. This nation has fought for democratic ideals like freedom of speech for centuries, and by eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) language from the government and education systems it creates censorship. Not only does barring DEI lead to control over what people can discuss at work or universities, but it will also revert the strides of progress DEI programming has created for all persons in the US. Research on diversity in organizations has demonstrated time and time again that DEI programs like employee resource groups, diverse recruitment, parental leave policies lead to lower turnover intentions, creativity and innovation, and positive perceptions toward organizations. Many other government programs that are not typically thought of as being DEI-related (e.g., federal student loans, language interpreters, Head Start programs, etc.) are at risk of being eliminated as well, which are programs that benefit millions of people. In this chapter, the author recommends that policymakers use scientific research when making decisions about DEI and avoid the censorship of DEI to prevent the fall of democratic principles in the US society.