Candace Byrdsong Williams, a seasoned diversity executive, is facing a tough job market after being laid off last August. For nearly two decades, she worked in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) roles, helping companies create more inclusive workplaces. However, the political landscape has shifted dramatically, leading many corporations to retreat from DEI initiatives.
Williams has filled her home in North Carolina with reminders of her journey—photos of her three daughters, inspirational quotes, and a collection of books on DEI. Despite her optimism, she now finds herself in a profession that has become increasingly difficult to navigate. The DEI job market, once thriving, has seen a significant decline. Since early 2023, over 2,600 jobs related to diversity have been eliminated, representing about 13% of the positions that existed at the peak of the hiring boom.
The backlash against DEI began to intensify during the Trump administration, with executive orders targeting diversity programs. This has led many companies to remove any mention of diversity from their job postings and internal policies. Major corporations like Verizon and Walmart have announced they are ending DEI policies, citing new priorities in their business strategies.
Williams, who was aiming for a promotion to chief diversity officer, now feels that such aspirations are slipping away. She recalls the vibrant DEI community of just a few years ago, where companies were eager to hire professionals dedicated to fostering inclusivity. Now, she struggles to find opportunities and has faced multiple interviews that led nowhere, often with companies opting to post similar roles without the DEI focus.
The retreat from DEI is not just impacting professionals like Williams; it also threatens the progress made in diversifying workplaces. Women and people of color, who make up a significant portion of DEI roles, are particularly affected by this downturn. The decline in DEI positions could have long-term consequences for workplace diversity.
In the face of these challenges, Williams remains hopeful. She is applying for roles that focus on "people" and "cultural transformation," hoping to find a company that values her experience. As she reflects on her career, she emphasizes her desire to continue doing meaningful work rather than chasing titles.
Byrdsong Williams’s journey highlights the current state of DEI in corporate America. As the landscape shifts, many professionals are left wondering what the future holds for diversity initiatives and the vital work they support.