Topic: “The Impact of D.E.I. Rollbacks on Women and the Workplace”
Thursday, May 21st, 2026 at 10:00 am to 11:30 am Pacific time.
Please join us at the May 2026 Virtual Water Cooler! It promises to be a good conversation.
On April 6, 2026, The New York Times published a guest essay by Joanne Lipman entitled “ I’ve Covered Women in the Workplace for 15 Years. Something Alarming Is Happening.” She says that in the United States, the “administration’s attack on diversity, equity and inclusion has rolled back decades of progress for women, who now face a widening gender pay gap and narrowing employment protections. In the process, discussions about women have become a third rail, a toxic topic that is too politically charged to touch. Companies, universities, law firms and cultural institutions are expunging references to “women” and “gender,” even under the most benign circumstances.”(J. Lipman, NYT, 4-6-2026).
The essay (which can be found here: Lipman, NYT, April 2026)), provides a provocative perspective on the impact of changing rules around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives on people and organizations, with a particular emphasis on the impact on women. Lipman’s opening line is this: “Believe women” was the defining message of the #MeToo movement. Today, there’s a new one: Erase women.” That’s a strong statement! In addition to the essay, Lipman discusses her position on what is happening and why in an interview on YouTube. You can find that here: J. Lipman Interview. Her observations are important for us to consider, so we propose to use the essay and interview as the basis for our water cooler discussion this month.
So, at the May 2026 Virtual Water Cooler, let’s talk about what’s happened with the rollback of DEI initiatives in the US. Let’s share our thoughts and ideas:
- What’s driven the changes we are seeing, and why?
- What will be the long-term impact on women and others affected by these changes?
- What can we do to undo and repair the damage being done to people and organizations by these rollbacks?
Please join us on Thursday, May 21st, 2026 at 10:00am (Pacific Daylight Time) for another conversation about people and organizations.
Bring your ideas and questions, and prepare to share your thoughts and experiences in another stimulating discussion with friends and colleagues.
We are looking forward to seeing you there.
