The Trump administration issued a directive to end “radical and wasteful Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs and preferencing.” This happened in February 2025 and has led to the termination of DEI programs in academia, government, and business.

A thriving cottage industry with consultants and a body of work is now struggling to find its purpose and existence.

Contrast this with what happened a few weeks after George Floyd’s murder in May 2020. Within weeks, industry, academia, and government had launched many DEI programs. This prompted individuals who had no prior knowledge of this field to suddenly become consultants. LinkedIn was filled with DEI consultants showcasing their knowledge of everything from microaggressions to critical race theory. Books sprouted, mandatory training’s were provided and businesses even started establishing quotas reacting to a public’s fury against social injustice.

Look at where we are today. We’ve flip flopped. Companies have rubbed DEI off their shelves. Academics have removed their teachings and offices on the topic. Once hallowed DEI speakers and thought leaders are nowhere to be found.