Standing Up for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Across the Nonprofit Sector

The values of diversity, equity, and inclusion are under attack.

And in this era of cancel culture and social media shaming, it’s easy to feel uncertain about how to hold fast to what we believe while sidestepping the vitriol. But we’re not interested in sidestepping. We want to be on the record, clearly and unapologetically, about what we stand for.

At Capital Campaign Pro, we have an active DEI Advisory Committee and warmly welcome organizations which advocate for disadvantaged and marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ and BIPOC-led and serving organizations, as well as women’s safety, healthcare, and empowerment groups.

DEI — Let’s Get Back to Basics

Instead of using the acronym “DEI,” let’s remind ourselves of the actual meaning of these words, straight from Merriam-Webster:

• Diversity: being composed of a variety of different elements.
• Equity: fairness or justice in the way people are treated.
• Inclusion: including and accommodating people who have historically been excluded.

These Ideas Are Not Jargon

These ideas aren’t jargon. They’re principles that have guided our work, and our lives, for decades. Long before DEI was a “term,” the values it represents were foundational to how we tried to live and lead.

Add to that a belief in the power of kindness and compassion, and you’ve got a solid roadmap for a healthy, just, and humane society.

When Values Are Turned Upside Down

But suddenly, the winds have shifted. The phrase “DEI” has been politicized and rebranded as something suspicious — even dangerous. And the nonprofit sector, which has quietly built its work on these values for generations, is now facing intense scrutiny.

Organizations are being told to erase DEI language from proposals and websites. Funding has been cut. Programs slashed. Pressure is mounting to rewrite not just words, but values.

Should We Embrace the Opposite of DEI?

Let’s be clear: to reject DEI is to embrace its opposite.

• Exclusion: rather than welcoming difference, the push is toward homogeneity and a single, approved point of view.
• Inequity: instead of fairness, justice is tied to wealth, intimidation, cruelty, and raw power.
• Uniformity: opposition to diversity implies a denial of worth to those who differ by race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or orientation.

The stakes are much higher than language. What’s under threat is a value system.

A DEI Storm for the Nonprofit Sector

It’s hitting our sector hard.

Nonprofits, many of which were created to serve the marginalized, now find themselves walking a tightrope. To receive government funding, they must align with shifting federal priorities. But they also face increasing demand from communities hit hardest by those same shifts.

While it may be necessary to revise language, it’s not acceptable to abandon mission.

These organizations exist to do good. They feed the hungry, educate the young, house the unhoused, and protect the vulnerable. Their very purpose is rooted in the ideals of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Threading the Needle

So how do you lead a values-driven organization in a values-hostile climate?

You thread the needle. You find language that meets the moment, without compromising your foundation.

This is a time for clarity and courage, not just in your messaging, but in your relationships.

What Can You Do?

Here are a few actions to take:

• Talk to your donors. Let them know how political shifts are affecting your ability to serve. Bring them closer. Show them what’s at stake.
• Ask for their help. Many of your supporters share your values. They may be just as distressed and just as eager to take action.
• Plan a special campaign. Create an initiative to cover immediate gaps in funding.

Your Nonprofit is Not Alone

As tough as this moment is, you’re not alone.

Millions of people do not support the sharp turn away from inclusion, equity, and justice. They’re looking for ways to hold the line, just like you.

And they’re counting on organizations like yours to do what you’ve always done; serve, include, protect, and uplift.

We’re with you every step of the way.