What is the meaning of diversity, equity and inclusion?

Diversity is, in truth, the foundation on which America was built. Our ancestors were an exceptional gathering of people escaping or expelled from or by tyrannical regimes. They were looking to form a new way of life in a “promised land.”

Equity is prominently stated as a primary principle in both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Our founding fathers wisely included it in these most sacred documents, which are the basis of the American way of life.

Inclusion of all peoples from all countries, faiths, races and, yes, even all genders, is what has provided the strength that has made America the most successful and attractive country in the world. As stated most memorably in the quote that comes from Emma Lazarus’ sonnet, “The New Colossus,” which is inscribed on the base of the Statue of Liberty, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”

DEI, then, is at the heart of the American dream. We need to embrace this version of DEI and not give in to the Trump administration version of Division, Exclusion and Inequity.

Our democracy, our union, is not perfect and changes do need to be implemented. The administration’s radical, chaotic and unprofessional approach, however, is destructive to all that we have achieved. We need to build on the solid foundation we have formed, not destroy it with no obvious thought or plan for the future — to say nothing of the pain and suffering it will cause in America and the wider world.

Don Bessey
Old Orchard Beach