DEI is Under Attack—But I'm Not Concerned

EXPERT OPINION BY DONNEBRA MCCLENDON

The other day, I heard U.S. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett say, “If you are competent, you are not concerned.” Her words hit home.

Right now, many see this as a challenging time for Black Americans, particularly in corporate spaces where Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are being rolled back at an alarming rate. But my resilience isn’t being tested—because I am competently qualified to thrive, even when the world around me is in disarray.

Competence Over Chaos

As a transformational leadership strategist, I’ve mastered agility—the ability to pivot, adapt, and lead no matter the circumstances. With three degrees, multiple certifications, and decades of executive experience, I don’t worry about corporate America’s superficial commitments fading away.

The reality? Companies have been lying to the public since the beginning of time. So, while I am not concerned, others should be—namely, white women.

Why White Women Should Be Paying Attention

Despite the narrative that DEI programs primarily uplift Black and Brown professionals, history tells a different story. White women have been the largest beneficiaries of DEI initiatives in corporate America. Here’s why:

1. Affirmative Action & DEI Have Historically Favored White Women

Affirmative action policies, corporate diversity programs, and supplier diversity initiatives have largely benefited white women. Many early DEI efforts focused on gender diversity rather than racial equity, disproportionately favoring white women over other marginalized groups.

2. White Women Have Gained Leadership Representation

While women of color remain drastically underrepresented in executive roles, white women have seen steady gains in leadership, board representation, and pay equity efforts. These strides were largely a result of DEI programs that aimed to diversify leadership—but didn’t always prioritize racial diversity.

3. Privilege + Intersectionality = Advantage

Unlike women of color, white women benefit from gender-focused DEI efforts while also holding racial privilege. This means they have greater access to networks, mentorship, sponsorship, and leadership opportunities—advantages that Black and Brown women still struggle to attain.

Confidence is in My DNA

So, while DEI may be under attack, I stand firm—not worried, not shaken, and definitely not surprised.

🔹 Thank you, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, for the reminder that competence eliminates concern.

🔹 Thank you, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune (Bethune-Cookman University), for ensuring that my educational foundation was rigorous and competitive.

🔹 And thank you to my ancestors—because confidence is in my DNA.

I am competent, confident, and qualified.

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