New Delhi: On his very first day as POTUS the second time, Donald Trump signed an executive order to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs within the federal government. This move sparked a firestorm, drawing applause from his supporters who saw it as a defence of traditional values and scorn from advocates who viewed it as a step backwards in the fight for equality.

Now, as the corporate world grapples with a growing backlash against DEI under the guise of “anti-wokeism,” the questions are louder than ever: Will companies retreat to appease political and cultural divides, or will they stand firm as torchbearers of inclusivity? Can they balance profits with principles in an environment where both are increasingly in conflict?

DEI is the culmination of decades of advocacy, systemic introspection, and the belief that diverse voices strengthen institutions. However, in today’s polarised world, this ideology is at a contentious crossroads, with figures like Donald Trump framing it as an imposition of “wokeism” and a threat to traditional values.

The roots of DEI stretch deep into the struggles for equality and justice. From the civil rights movements of the 1960s to the feminist and LGBTQ advocacy that followed, the journey towards inclusivity has been arduous. These efforts shaped laws and policies, from equal pay protections to........

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