Rebranding equity as ‘belonging’ won’t advance justice – it’s DEI rollback in disguise

Since 2024, many institutions have retreated from diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) by rebranding “equity” with softer terms like “belonging” or “community.” While presented as progress, this shift often reflects political and donor pressure, undermining accountability and obscuring systemic barriers. Replacing equity with vague language risks sidelining marginalised groups and weakening measurable goals, even though research shows equity initiatives boost performance and retention. True progress requires explicit equity objectives, transparency, diverse voices in decision-making, and leader accountability.

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