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Advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) requires fresh approaches in today’s climate. With the conversation becoming increasingly charged, organizations often find themselves caught in the crosshairs of political and social debates. Despite these challenges, cultivating meaningful cultural transformation is more crucial than ever.
For associations, the path to advancing DEI can be especially complex. Unlike corporations or nonprofits with centralized leadership, associations serve a broad, ideologically diverse membership. This requires a particularly thoughtful and strategic approach to DEI, balancing progress with community engagement. At the same time, this moment offers a rare opportunity to reflect on core values and identify what truly matters. By embracing these conversations, associations can clarify their priorities, shaping a more inclusive and intentional future.
1. Understanding Your Landscape
The external environment heavily influences the internal conversations within your association. Staying attuned to political and social trends, while regularly engaging with members, enables associations to anticipate challenges, uncover opportunities, and align DEI efforts with the interests of their audience.
2. Using Language That Builds Bridges
Words matter, and in today’s climate, some DEI terms may evoke resistance. Instead of pushing for specific terminology, focus on framing DEI around shared values like fairness, opportunity, and belonging. Positioning inclusion to strengthen professional communities can engage members who may otherwise be hesitant.
3. Getting Creative with DEI Practices
The past few months have demonstrated that DEI efforts should be tailored to an organization’s unique needs. Some associations integrate DEI topics into professional development, while others leverage data to highlight disparities and drive change. Here are a few innovative practices:
4. Focusing on Relationships Over Mandates
Leadership must make equitable decisions without waiting for unanimous agreement, while being transparent about when decision-making is collective and when it is not. Trusting members to offer bold, fair solutions enables everyone to contribute. Real, lasting change doesn’t arise from top-down mandates alone. Leaders should create opportunities for members to propose initiatives, ensuring collective ownership. Accountability is key—aligning actions with DEI goals should be a shared responsibility. By fostering dialogue, offering learning opportunities, and strengthening relationships, associations can build momentum and deepen engagement. Leadership plays an essential role in setting the tone for inclusivity and driving sustainable change.
5. Staying the Course in a Politically Charged World
External pressures can make DEI work feel like an uphill battle, but a clear strategy can help associations persist:
6. Leveraging Their Role in Advocacy
Associations should not shy away from advocacy when it serves the public interest and promotes transparency. A clear example of this is the American Medical Association (AMA), which used YouTube to share updates on avian influenza (bird flu)—a platform the CDC was restricted from using for public health messaging. By stepping into this role, the AMA filled a gap left by regulatory constraints and ensured vital health information reached the public. This example demonstrates how associations can advocate for timely, credible information, building trust among their membership and the wider community.
Despite the challenges, associations play an essential role in creating more inclusive professional spaces. By being intentional, fostering collaboration, and adopting innovative strategies, they can overcome obstacles and drive meaningful change.
At its core, this work is about engaging the full potential of the individual, where innovation thrives, and where diverse views, beliefs, and values are integrated. Although the current moment is difficult, it also offers a unique opportunity to reflect on who we are, what we stand for, and what we want to prioritize moving forward. The journey may not be easy, but with commitment and adaptability, associations can transform DEI from a buzzword into a lasting part of their organizational culture.
