Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategy Flashcards

Following the 2023 Supreme Court decision in SFFA v. Harvard, many U.S. employers reviewed their DEI programs mainly for what reason?

Answer: To reduce legal risk around programs that use race as a factor in selection or eligibility

Although the case involved college admissions, employers reassessed race-conscious practices under Title VII and Section 1981.

Which federal law prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin?

Answer: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Title VII is the core federal law covering these protected characteristics in employment.

Which practice is generally considered legally safer for U.S. private employers aiming to broaden candidate pools?

Answer: Expanding outreach to diverse sources while using consistent, job-related selection criteria

Broad outreach widens the pool without basing selection decisions on protected characteristics.

A company wants to sponsor a mentoring program for underrepresented employees. Which design reduces legal risk while serving the intended goal?

Answer: Open eligibility to all employees, with outreach and content designed around common barriers

Open-to-all programs with targeted outreach support underrepresented groups without excluding anyone based on protected traits.

Supplier diversity programs in a DEI strategy primarily aim to:

Answer: Increase procurement opportunities for businesses owned by underrepresented groups, such as women, minorities, and veterans

Supplier diversity extends DEI impact into the supply chain and the broader community economy.

What is the main strategic purpose of employee resource groups (ERGs) in a mature DEI strategy?

Answer: To serve as business partners that inform talent, product, and market strategy while building community

Mature ERGs provide community plus insight and support for business and talent goals.

When integrating DEI into a global organization, which approach is most effective?

Answer: A global framework with local adaptation to legal, cultural, and demographic contexts

A glocal approach keeps shared principles while respecting local laws and cultural realities.