The Case for DEI: A Moral Imperative and Economic Advantage
Introduction
The stain of racial inequity is not going away by ignoring it. There are two viable proposals in public discourse today. The first, deals with reparations and the second deals with “diversity, equity and inclusion.” Reparations provide a way to make amends for a wrong committed.
Dr. William Darity is a Professor of Public Policy and launched entire research field, called “stratification economics” which evaluates economic inequality across social groups. For example, slavery represents a stratification, whereby someone exercises possession of another human and their labor. Since that enslaved worker lacks any power or wealth, then s/he is the lowest category within a stratification system. He is considered one of the foremost scholars on reparations. His book, From Here to Equality, cowritten with A. Kirsten Mullen, said their methodology requires three building blocks: acknowledgement, redress and closure. According to Darity we have a partial checkmark on the first one – acknowledgement. “In 2006-2007, each branch of Congress provided an apology for slavery. It didn’t provide an apology for all of the full scale atrocities that occurred after slavery ended,” said Darity.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
The other primary proposal, which is what the balance of this article is dedicated to, deals with diversity, equity and inclusion, or “DEI.” In recent years, the concept of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has become a topic of heated debate, with some claiming that it is harmful and divisive. As one example, in his article, DEI Left to Die, Mason Goad misses key elements regarding DEI in his quest for a constructive way forward.
The article in question alleges that the pursuit of DEI is detrimental, failing to recognize the inherent value and numerous benefits it brings to society. From a womanist ethical perspective, embracing DEI is not only a moral imperative but also a civic responsibility for the Christian Church. (See this link for Civil Rights leaders who advocated for DEI). To be clear, reparations have been given to numerous groups in the US, but rarely to African descended citizens.
By contrast, DEI efforts do not provide reparations, but instead provide equitable forms of access to the job market and education. As a faith community grounded in the principles of love, compassion, and human dignity, the Church has an ethical obligation to champion DEI in all spheres of life.
II. The Moral Imperative of DEI
Womanist ethics, rooted in the experiences and struggles of Black women, calls for the active pursuit of social justice, equity, and the upliftment of marginalized voices. (See “Being a Black Woman in America,” 2018.) Celebrating diverse voices and perspectives is a reflection of the richness and beauty of God's creation. Each individual is endowed with unique gifts, experiences, and perspectives that contribute to the tapestry of human diversity. By embracing DEI, we honor the inherent worth and dignity of every person, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, or background.
Promoting equity and inclusion is a form of social justice, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to opportunities and resources. It aligns with the biblical mandate to uphold justice, defend the oppressed, and advocate for the marginalized (Is. 1:17, Prv. 31:8-9). The Church's commitment to DEI is a tangible expression of its love for humanity and its pursuit of a more equitable and just society.
The foundations for embracing diversity and advocating for the marginalized are deeply rooted in the Scriptures. From the creation narrative, which celebrates the diversity of God's creation (Gen. 1:27), to the inclusive ministry of Jesus, who embraced and uplifted those on the fringes of society (Lu. 4:18-19), the Bible calls us to value and uplift diverse voices and experiences.
III. Economic and Societal Benefits of DEI
Beyond the moral imperative, DEI also brings significant economic and societal benefits. Diverse perspectives and experiences foster innovation and enhance problem-solving capabilities, as individuals from different backgrounds contribute unique insights and approaches. This diversity of thought is essential for businesses, organizations, and communities to remain competitive and thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.
By fostering a more inclusive and equitable workforce, DEI initiatives help to advance the best talent, regardless of their background or circumstances. This not only creates a more competitive and successful workforce but also promotes social cohesion and understanding among different communities (Forbes, 2023, BarrettRose & Lee, Inc. 2024), reducing prejudices and fostering a more harmonious society.
IV. The Church's Role in Advancing DEI
As a moral and ethical leader in society, the Church has a crucial role to play in advancing DEI. By modeling inclusive practices and embracing diversity within its own community, the Church can set an example for others to follow. This includes actively promoting diverse representation in leadership, creating inclusive worship experiences, and fostering an environment where all individuals feel welcomed and valued.
Furthermore, the Church has a civic responsibility to advocate for equity and inclusion in political and social spheres. This can take many forms, such as supporting legislation that promotes equal opportunities, participating in community initiatives that address systemic barriers, and using its influential voice to raise awareness and call for change.
Promoting DEI through education, community outreach, and leadership development programs is another vital aspect of the Church's role. By equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to embrace diversity and champion inclusion, the Church can empower future generations to create a more just and equitable society.
V. Addressing Potential Challenges and Criticisms
While the pursuit of DEI is a moral and ethical imperative, it is not without challenges and criticisms. Some may argue that DEI initiatives promote reverse discrimination or lower standards, favoring certain groups over others. However, true equity and inclusion do not seek to disadvantage anyone but rather to level the playing field and provide equal opportunities for all.
There may also be tensions between DEI principles and traditional cultural or religious norms, particularly in communities where certain beliefs or practices have historically marginalized certain groups. In such cases, open and respectful dialogue is crucial to find constructive solutions that uphold the dignity of all individuals while acknowledging and addressing systemic inequities.
Conclusion
Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion is not merely a social or political stance but a moral and ethical imperative grounded in womanist ethics and the Christian faith (Brewer and Williams, 2019; Bahler, 2020; McDaniel, et al, 2018; ) As a community called to love our neighbors (Mat. 22:37-39), seek justice (Is. 1:17), and uplift the marginalized. (Helpful texts include, Ps. 68:5, Is. 1:17, 1 Jn. 3:17, Mal. 3:5), the Church has a profound responsibility to champion DEI in all spheres of life.
By recognizing the inherent value of diverse voices, advocating for equity, and fostering an inclusive society, the Church can fulfill its civic duty and contribute to the flourishing of all people. It is time for the Church to lead by example, embrace its role as a catalyst for change, and actively work towards creating a more just, equitable, and inclusive world for all.
Dr. CL Nash, The Misogynoir to Mishpat (M2M) Research Network © 2025
Online Resources and Further Reading:
Adjuwon, Ezekiel Adekunle. “Christian Ethical Expectations in Leadership,” in International Journal of Culture and Religious Studies (IJCRS), July 10, 2023
Rutgers Today, “Being a Black Woman in America,” 2018
Fowler, Emma. “Why It’s Time to Build a Truly Diverse Church,” in Premiere Christianity, 2023
Diocese of Oxford, “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,”
The Church of England, “Our Values, Belonging and Inclusion”
National Council of Churches, “Reparations to Restoration”
National Council of Churches, “Interreligious Relations and Collaboration”
Lewis Center for Church Leadership, “Leading Ideas”
Satterwhite, Arthur. “Christians Should Lead the Way in Diversity and Equity,” in Christianity Today, May 11, 2022
Geneva College, “A Christian View of Diversity,”
Postell. Marissa, “Most Pastors See Racial Diversity as a Goal in the Church but Not Reality”, Lifeway Research, Feb 15th, 2022
Books:
Cannon, Katie Geneva, et al, eds. Womanist Theological Ethics: a Reader, 2011 (https://www.religionandviolence.org/theproject/womanist-ethics/ )
Darity, William and Kirsten Mullen, From Here to Equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the Twenty-First Century, 2020
Gafney, Wilda C. Womanist Midrash: A Reintroduction to the Women of the Torah and the Throne, 2017
Longman, Karen. Diversity Matters: Race, Ethnicity, and the Future of Christian Higher Education: Abilene Christian University Press, 2017
Townes, Emilie. Womanist Ethics and the Cultural Production of Evil, Palgrave Macmillan, 2007