Diversity and Inclusion News: January 30, 2025

There's so much happening right now in the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I’m here to keep track of it for you.

No matter your political affiliations, one thing is clear—DEI initiatives will continue to impact workplaces and communities across the globe.

Here are some top headlines in diversity and inclusion news over the past week.

'Canada is Not for Sale' Hat Goes Viral Amid Political Tensions

In response to U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threats and the suggestion that Canada become the 51st state, Ottawa entrepreneur Liam Mooney launched the "Canada is Not for Sale" hat.

The hats gained national attention after Ontario Premier Doug Ford wore one during a meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Since then, tens of thousands have been sold online, symbolizing unity and resistance to external pressures.

The project revealed the challenges of producing fully Canadian-made products, emphasizing the need to invest in domestic manufacturing and support local industries.

This story shows how diversity, equity, and inclusion connect to economic opportunities and unity. Supporting local manufacturing creates jobs for underrepresented communities, helping to build a more inclusive economy.

The "Canada is Not for Sale" campaign also stands for fairness, highlighting the need to invest in diverse businesses and break down barriers for everyone. It’s a reminder that DEI isn’t just about people—it’s about creating systems that work for all.

President Trump Announces DEI Policy Changes

President Trump has announced executive actions to abolish DEI mandates within federal entities and stated that the U.S. government will officially recognize only two genders, "male and female." This marks a significant shift in federal policy regarding gender identity and DEI initiatives.

Mean Girls GIF by filmeditor

Giphy

Some Companies Push For Continued Focus on DEI.

Some companies are leading the charge by advocating for racial justice, gender equality, and inclusive workplace practices, creating cultures where all employees can thrive.

Ben and Jerry’s

Ben & Jerry’s has been making waves on social media by sharing its values of inclusion, sparking both support and criticism.

While some argue they should "stick to ice cream," their approach is proving effective in connecting with consumers. By aligning their brand with social values, Ben & Jerry’s demonstrates that people want to support companies that reflect their beliefs—showing how purpose-driven business practices can also drive sales.

@bernedettemarketing

Great job on aligning with your brand purpose and values @benandjerrys!! #branding #brandstrategy

Costco

Remains deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, emphasizing that a diverse workforce benefits both employees and customers. At its annual shareholders meeting, the Board Chairman highlighted how workforce diversity helps the company connect with its increasingly diverse customer base and discover unique products. Costco's commitment to inclusion focuses on hiring and promoting the most qualified individuals without quotas or preferences, ensuring fairness and merit. 

Microsoft

Company leadership emphasizes the importance of a workforce that reflects the global community it serves. Microsoft has set five-year leadership employment targets for underrepresented groups, offers extensive employee resources through its DEI website, and provides detailed annual reports on workforce demographics to track progress.

What’s up with Musk?

This week, Elon Musk came under scrutiny for his ‘salute’ at the Presidential Inauguration. The gesture quickly sparked backlash, with many condemning the act as a dangerous display of support for extreme ideologies.

Musk's actions this week have drawn significant attention to the intersection of tech, politics, and extremism, raising concerns about the influence of wealthy individuals on political movements and international affairs.

The controversy has also led to intense discussions about accountability and public figures' responsibility in shaping the political narrative.

This Week's Hot Take

When leaders make decisions without supporting data, we’re left to assume those choices are driven by personal gain or self-interest.

Were minority groups making so much progress that it unsettled those in power?

It’s hard to believe that underrepresented groups were poised to dominate the U.S. Yet, the use of scare tactics as a leadership approach reflects insecurity and results in decisions that are both harmful and counterproductive.

The business case for diversity is clear—diverse workplaces lead to greater innovation, higher profits, and stronger employee engagement. Watching the U.S. take significant steps backward on inclusion is disheartening, unsettling, and deeply concerning.

As a mixed-race, female Canadian, I can’t help but wonder how these changes will affect progress globally. Underrepresented job seekers already face immense barriers, and it’s devastating that this remains their reality in 2025.

I remember the first time I saw a mixed-race, Black-and-white family on TV—I was well into my 20s. Now, I fear we might be moving backward.

I was surprised to learn that Musk’s ‘salute’ was blurred out in many countries and deemed offensive and inappropriate, yet it streams freely in Canada and the U.S. What does this mean? And what is the actual business case for cutting diversity initiatives? How do the numbers support such decisions? Or is this driven by the ego of an elite few who resist progress?

The good news is there are leaders and companies, like Ben & Jerry’s, who take a firm stance on diversity and openly share their values of inclusion. While they’ve been criticized and told to “just sell ice cream,” this should serve as an inspiring reminder that we are all able to lead.

So, go grab yourself a tub of that Ben & Jerry’s and take comfort in the fact that good leadership continues to rise above adversity. Let’s hope for more good news next week.

Shauna

Shauna Cole is the Founder of hirediverse.ca, Canada’s diversity job board.

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