Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) seems to make people all across the country — and right here in Fountain Hills — uncomfortable. But much of this discomfort comes from a fundamental misunderstanding of what DEI actually is.
Normally, I’d recommend reading up on it, but that may be too “woke” for some. So, let’s break it down simply.
DEI isn’t about favoring one group over another. It’s about making sure that every person — regardless of background — has access to opportunities and resources to succeed. That includes veterans who struggle to access healthcare, people with disabilities facing workplace discrimination, seniors navigating ageism, LGBTQ+ folks denied housing, and working-class families left behind by economic shifts.
So, let me ask you: Does it make you uncomfortable to hear that veterans have lost job offers due to bias? That seniors can be pushed out of their homes due to rising costs? That mothers returning to the workforce are overlooked or dismissed because they have children? That people with disabilities are still fighting for basic accessibility? These are DEI issues, too.
Rejecting DEI efforts doesn’t make these realities disappear — it just makes us turn a blind eye. Instead of fearmongering about what DEI isn’t, let’s focus on what it actually does: create a community where all people, including those right here in Fountain Hills, have a fair shot at success.
As Liz Fosslien puts it, "Diversity is having a seat at the table, inclusion is having a voice, and belonging is having that voice be heard."
Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
Share with others
