Standing Our Ground on EDI

By Samantha Stimpson (Founder & CEO: SLS 360)

Photo Credit: Canva

The words equity, diversity, and inclusion are under pressure. In recent months, we’ve seen reports of companies rebranding EDI, swapping in softer terms like “belonging,” “organisational culture,” or “people strategy.” The reason? EDI has become too political, too divisive, or simply carries negative baggage.

At one level, we understand. Words matter. If the label gets in the way of the work, it’s tempting to shift the language. The goal, after all, is to make progress. Here at SLS 360 we have taken this approach especially with our clients in the US who are under pressure from the Trump administration to roll back on DEI efforts or face consequences. 

But here’s the danger. When we shy away from words because they feel uncomfortable, we risk losing the very clarity and courage that equity and inclusion demand. In the UK, we know this all too well. 

From the Race Relations Act to the Equality Act, language has always been central to naming injustice and setting legal frameworks. It’s rarely been comfortable. Softening the words may seem like a smart tactic. But let’s not forget that the backlash against EDI isn’t really about the letters. It’s about the work. It’s about the challenge EDI poses to entrenched systems of privilege, bias, and exclusion. Changing the label won’t change that reality.

That’s why we need to pivot back and argue for standing our ground. In basic terms (it is more complex than this…)

• Equity means fairness in outcomes not just striving for equality or ‘one size fits all’.

• Diversity means valuing, celebrating and recognising the benefits of difference in identity, experience, and thought.

• Inclusion means making space for everyone to feel a sense of belonging where they can thrive.

These aren’t optional extras and they aren’t reserved for a select few. They’re for EVERYONE and are at the heart of what makes workplaces and communities thrive.

Instead of diluting the terms, maybe we should double down on education and awareness. Invite people in, lead the way so people truly understand what EDI really means. Share the stories of impact. Show how inclusion benefits everyone.

Because if we give up on the words, we risk giving up on the work.

What we’re doing at SLS 360

SLS 360 supports organisations and individuals to be bold and brave in your efforts to affect positive change. For more information on SLS 360 and the I.D.E.A.L Network, visit www.sls360.org. You can also subscribe to receive our fortnightly audio casts, and monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about special offers and events in the world of inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

📩 Reach out to us at info@sls360.org to start the conversation.

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