DEI under attack: What job seekers need to know
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are under fire. Once celebrated as pillars of modern workplaces, they’ve become controversial as political shifts reshape priorities. The new political landscape, fueled by claims of a “woke agenda,” has seen companies and schools retreating from DEI initiatives, fearing backlash.
Yet, the consequences of sidelining DEI are stark. In its latest findings, Pew Research says views of DEI have become ‘slightly more negative’ in the past year, with more groups of American workers, especially Republicans and men, saying a DEI focus at work is mainly a bad thing.
A recent Anti-Defamation League (ADL) study revealed systemic discrimination against Jewish job seekers. Jewish candidates needed to send 24.2% more applications to get the same responses as peers with Western European backgrounds. Those with Israeli-sounding names faced an even greater hurdle, needing 39% more applications. Such findings highlight how discrimination isn’t a relic of the past—it’s an ongoing reality.
As DEI programs dwindle and biases resurface, what can job seekers do to navigate these challenges? Here are three actionable strategies:
1. Craft a Neutral Resume
Limit identifiers, such as religious affiliations, that might inadvertently invite bias. Instead, focus on your achievements and skills. Remove your graduation year from the education section to overcome age bias.
2. Network Strategically
Build connections within your industry to access opportunities through referrals, bypassing initial screening biases.
3. Research Employer Practices
Investigate company culture and public statements about diversity. Sites like Glassdoor and LinkedIn can provide insights into inclusivity. Lesser-known websites with more in-depth diversity insights are GreatPlaceToWork and Comparably.
This is not just about job seekers - it’s about demanding accountability. As DEI initiatives face growing scrutiny, we must hold companies and schools accountable for fostering equitable opportunities. Bias, whether against Jewish job seekers or other marginalized groups, has no place in a modern workforce.
The fight for equity isn’t over. It’s up to all of us to ensure it doesn’t become a forgotten cause.