Navigating DEI Challenges: A Call for Inclusive Meritocracy
In recent times, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)—well-intentioned and evidence-based as it aspires to be — has faced criticism from various quarters, with voices ranging from a rowdy Elon Musk to a perplexed Jordan Peterson asserting that DEI must "DIE." (Quite a cute letter permutation.) However, like any strategic initiative and its related tools, the effectiveness of DEI lies in its application rather than its existence.
As an autistic individual, and far from viewing myself as per Jordan Peterson’s misguided label “radical collectivist ideologue”, I find resonance in the idea that DEI misapplication should not lead to abandonment merely because it may be dancing on the “far-left edges” (whatever that means, Dr. Peterson).
Having worked in the corporate world — where DEI has taken on forms from the similes of thought policing to tangibly positive results for a more inclusive and accepting ecosystem — I can sometimes perceive lip service and sometimes good work beyond simply a phrase. And my opinion is that DEI must no more die than the pencil must cease to be produced as it can serve as a murder weapon:
DEI serves as a framework for fostering diverse perspectives, equitable opportunities, and inclusive environments. It acknowledges the unique strengths and contributions diverse individuals bring to the table, enriching our collective understanding and creativity.
By addressing systemic biases and fostering inclusivity, DEI aims to create environments where everyone, regardless of background or individuality, can thrive and can be in a merited (i.e., legitimate) position to innovate and create value. All these, of course, provided that they are objectively put in that well-deserved position and not for the sake of ticking some DEI box off the corporate list.
Embracing Meritocracy within DEI
While DEI is a commendable goal, integrating meritocracy into its core is essential for its meaningful implementation. Meritocracy ensures that individuals are recognized and rewarded based on their skills, abilities, and contributions, irrespective of demographic factors. This balance is crucial to avoid tokenism, thus potentially leading to discrimination, and to promote genuine inclusion where every single individual has the opportunity to excel based on their merit.
Far from discrimination, which it is supposed to eliminate, DEI with meritocracy at its kernel has several advantages:
Enhanced Performance. Meritocracy encourages individuals to strive for excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
Fair Opportunity. True meritocracy ensures that everyone, regardless of background, has equal access to opportunities based on their abilities and achievements.
Bias reduction. Integrating meritocracy helps counteract biases, ensuring that decisions are made on individual merit rather than preconceived notions.
Cultivating Diversity of Thought. Meritocracy as a core component DEI leads to a diverse pool of talented individuals contributing unique perspectives, without fears of thought policing, ultimately enhancing problem-solving and creativity.
The criticism of DEI, especially by famous individuals who have a responsibility to act objectively, empathetically, and compassionately in front of large audience that follows them, should prompt thoughtful reflection and refinement rather than dismissal.
As an autistic individual, I understand the importance of accommodating diverse needs and perspectives. I would truly feel excluded (or, discriminated against) when going in a job interview and later being told that “I didn’t get the highest score because I lost points when I didn’t establish eye contact with the interviewers”.
I also understand that meritocracy serves as a powerful ally in ensuring that DEI is not just a symbolic endeavor but a meaningful and effective force for positive change without falling into the trap of discriminating others inadvertently or intentionally. By acknowledging the merits of both concepts, and perhaps by integrating meritocracy as an integral component of the whole, we pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Feel free to connect with me: https://linktr.ee/undaautistica.
