Critical Importance of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (Dei)

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to underscore the critical importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across America--a subject deeply personal to me, as a Black woman.

Generations of separate and unequal education, housing, employment, and compensation have left Black Americans at a persistent disadvantage. DEI holds our Nation accountable for this unjust and unequal treatment that began with slavery and segregation and continues with policies and practices that persist in discriminating against Black people denying them equal opportunity and treatment.

The statistics are stark: non-white school districts receive $2,226 less per student on average, contributing to an achievement gap that reduces Black students' college attendance and lifetime earnings by 65 percent. Even with advanced degrees, African American women earn significantly less than their white male counterparts and still less than white males with less education. African American women holding advanced degrees, such as a master's, earn $7 less per hour than Caucasian men with a bachelor's degree, and $17 less per hour than their Caucasian male peers.

Furthermore, systemic biases persist in financial systems, where Black families earning substantially more than white families are still less likely to qualify for loans. A Black family earning $157,000 per year is less likely to qualify for a loan than a white family earning $40,000. DEI efforts must continue to level the playing field and establish a meritocracy reflecting our national values.

While correcting for the injustice of the past and present, DEI is a tool of intention, shaping our national protectory. It compels us to strategically engage all our country's talent to compete in the global marketplace of today and tomorrow.

In today's fiercely competitive global economy, America's innovation, and adaptability hinge on our ability to harness the talents and perspectives of all our citizens. By cultivating diverse talent pipelines and fostering inclusive practices, we not only enhance our competitiveness but also lead in the global arena. Companies embracing DEI outperform their peers, with McKinsey studies showing a significant profitability gap between leading DEI practicing organizations and those lagging. Companies in the fourth quartile of both gender and ethnic diversity were 27 percent more likely to underperform on profitability than all other companies in their peer group.

Despite the proven benefits of DEI, right-wing conservatives seek to dismantle these efforts, perpetuating racial hostility and discrimination. Workplace discrimination lawsuits have surged, and hate crimes continue to rise to record levels year after year, in their wake, underscoring the urgent need for DEI to counteract these trends and increase awareness of each other's humanity and perspective.

The DEI journey we have embarked upon is not just about numbers or statistics; it's about the fundamental values that define who we are as a Nation and our ability to thrive economically.

Let us recommit to DEI policies not only for the Black community but for all marginalized groups. Our diversity is our greatest asset, and by embracing it, we can forge a brighter, more prosperous America for all.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source