The term "DEI," which stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion, has become a focal point in political discourse, especially among high-profile conservatives. Recently, it has been used to undermine Black individuals in public life, with critics arguing that it serves as a euphemism for racism. Prominent figures, including the US President, have been accused of using "DEI" to further racist agendas. Alina Habba, a White House counselor, sparked controversy by referring to Karoline Leavitt, the administration's press secretary, as a "DEI hire," suggesting her race rather than qualifications earned her the position.
Van Lathan, a Black podcaster, expressed his disdain for the term "DEI," stating it is now "worse than the N-word" and has become "the worst slur in American history." This sentiment highlights the belief that DEI serves as a racist dogwhistle, pretending that the advancement of minority communities over the past six decades was a mistake.
The term "DEI hire" is often used to imply that an individual's employment is based solely on their race or ethnicity, undermining their professional qualifications. This notion echoes historical strategies used by political figures like Lee Atwater, a former Republican strategist who infamously explained how Republicans could mask their racism behind coded language to appeal to white voters without using explicit racial slurs.
In a related accusation, a former producer on The Apprentice claimed that Donald Trump used the N-word to describe a Black finalist on the show in 2024. Trump has faced multiple allegations of using the N-word during filming. However, he denied these claims, stating:
“I don’t have that word in my vocabulary, and never have.” – Donald Trump
The use of DEI as a racist dogwhistle continues to face criticism from public figures like Jean-Pierre, who argues that it conceals anti-Black racism. DEI is now perceived as a tool to mainstream bigotry and discrimination in the United States. The weaponization of this three-letter term to denigrate Black people undermines significant progress made by minority communities.
Charlie Kirk, a conservative commentator, expressed skepticism about DEI initiatives when he stated:
“If I see a Black pilot, I’m gonna be like, ‘Boy, I hope he is qualified,” – Charlie Kirk
This comment underscores the implicit biases linked to DEI and how it can perpetuate stereotypes rather than promote genuine inclusion.
Greg Gutfeld, another conservative pundit, commented on the pervasive nature of DEI discussions:
“can be used to explain everything … except, unlike racism and climate change, which the left found under every rock, every issue, DEI is, indeed, under every rock because the Democrats put it there.” – Greg Gutfeld
His remarks illustrate how DEI has become a contentious issue across political lines. Critics argue that its misuse places undue blame on minority communities for societal issues.
Van Lathan further elaborated on this point:
“DEI is placing the blame of all of society’s ills at the feet of these people.” – Van Lathan
Lathan's observation highlights how DEI can be manipulated to shift responsibility away from systemic issues and onto marginalized groups.