Public campaigns to reshape the conversation around diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), a shared repository of tools, frameworks and equity initiatives and special interest groups to lead key areas of impact are some of the actions recommended in a white paper written by Diversity Works New Zealand Chief Executive Maretha Smit.
Beyond the backlash: Holding the line on fairness captures the collective wisdom of practitioners, change agents and thought leaders who gathered at a special session of our annual conference in April.
“Across the globe, and increasingly here in Aotearoa New Zealand, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts are facing growing scrutiny and resistance. From legislative rollbacks to corporate disengagement, from performative optics to outright hostility, the work of building fairer, more inclusive workplaces are under sustained pressure,” Maretha says.
“And yet, amid this turbulence, one thing remains clear: the principles of fairness, belonging, and dignity are more relevant and more necessary than ever.”
The paper is not just a reflection on the state of DEI in New Zealand; it’s a contribution to the ongoing conversation about where we go from here – and how we go together.
It looks at the root causes of resistance to DEI mahi and critical actions organisations and leaders need to take to navigate the current backlash. Additionally, it offers constructive responses to some of the anti-DEI narratives and arguments expressed in media soundbites, social media posts and around the water cooler.
It also outlines top priorities for the next 18 to 24 months.
“If workplace inclusion is to remain a sustainable and credible force within workplaces, we must move beyond defensive positioning and instead frame inclusion as integral to business strength, resilience, and future readiness,” Maretha says.
It will be essential to bring inclusion into the mainstream of business influence across industries and leadership circles.
“Social cohesion is not just the responsibility of governments. It is the work of all of us — and workplaces remain one of the most powerful platforms we have to reinforce the bonds of trust and shared purpose that hold society together.”
