While there isn't one universally adopted "new name" for DEI, prominent rebranding efforts include shifting to IED (Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity) or simplifying to Inclusion, particularly as a strategic response to political and cultural challenges.
The Evolving Landscape of DEI Terminology
The acronym DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) has recently faced increasing scrutiny and accumulated cultural and political baggage. This has prompted many organizations and leaders to re-evaluate their terminology and approach to these crucial initiatives. The primary goal behind these name changes is often to shed negative connotations and refocus the conversation on broader, more widely accepted principles.
IED: A Strategic Reordering
One notable rebranding effort involves reordering the letters to IED (Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity). This shift is exemplified by figures like Johnny C. Taylor Jr., who has opted for IED to emphasize "inclusion" as the focal point. By placing inclusion first, the aim is to highlight the creation of environments where all individuals feel valued and belong, before delving into the aspects of diversity and equity. This subtle change seeks to make the initiatives more palatable and less politically charged.
"Inclusion": A Simplified Approach
Another streamlined rebranding effort is simply adopting "Inclusion" as the new umbrella term. This straightforward approach aims to distill the complex ideas of DEI into a single, less controversial concept. For instance, a major human resources association recently changed the name of its annual DEI conference to "Inclusion 2023." This move underscores a desire to reframe these efforts in a way that emphasizes broader acceptance and collective belonging, often seen as a less divisive term than DEI.
Why the Rebranding? Shedding Political Baggage
The primary driver behind the renaming of DEI initiatives is to navigate the increased political and cultural scrutiny they have attracted.
- Mitigating Backlash: The term "DEI" has become a flashpoint in certain political and social debates, leading to backlash and misunderstanding. Rebranding helps organizations distance themselves from these controversies.
- Refocusing the Narrative: Changing the name provides an opportunity to reframe the conversation, often by emphasizing universal values like belonging and fairness, which tend to be less polarizing.
- Enhancing Acceptance: New terminology can make these essential efforts more approachable and acceptable to a wider audience, fostering greater internal and external support.
Practical Implications of the Rebrand
The strategic shift in terminology reflects a broader effort by organizations to ensure their diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives remain effective and well-received. This adaptation often involves a renewed focus on the outcomes of these programs rather than just their labels.
| Old Terminology | New Terminology (Examples) | Primary Strategic Focus |
|---|---|---|
| DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) | IED (Inclusion, Equity, Diversity) | Highlighting belonging and psychological safety |
| DEI Conference | Inclusion Conference | Broader appeal, emphasis on unity |
| DEI Initiatives | Belonging & Connection Programs | Less prescriptive, more inclusive language |
This adaptive naming strategy allows organizations to continue their vital work in fostering equitable and diverse environments while sidestepping the "cultural and political baggage" that has become associated with the traditional DEI acronym.
