Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Programs and Policy Discussions Continue Across Maryland  

US Supreme Court cases, executive orders, and new federal policies have increasingly been putting more pressure on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts within state and local jurisdictions, sparking meaningful conversations within governments and communities. 

colored outlines of men and women in business attire in front of black and white drawings of diverse facesThe last decade has seen a massive shift both toward and away from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. In multiple years, DEI leaders and programs were the fastest growing new role and component of many businesses and organizations. While much of that growth continued, some diversity leaders had seen record turnover in the profession, particularly when met with resistance from leadership and employees when it comes to the scope of their work and actually implementing new policies. More recently, the ideological divide on DEI policies and programs has gotten even more significant as decisions from the courts, federal executive orders, and federal agencies have been playing out.

In some instances, tension has risen so high that local elected and non-elected officials have become the targets of threats and aggression. Local election officials, law enforcement, health officers, DEI directors, human service teams, and school administrators are specifically feeling the pressure of increased division and aggression in the wider community. Not all of these instances are over DEI programs, but all are instances where division over policy and opinion have led to threats of harm. Under these circumstances, delivering vital public services could become difficult to do as interest in civic service decreases.

Recent MACo conferences have frequently hosted panel discussions where the successes and challenges of diversity, equity, and inclusion work is examined. Major benefits of the programs have been made clear by local leaders, such as safer and more productive workplace environments that also serve to limit liability exposure, and bolstering the recruitment and retention of younger employee candidates.

However, on-the-ground circumstances are often more complicated than anyone can anticipate, with fear and apprehension due to Federal policies being a driving factor in many decisions – as has played out in Montgomery, Talbot, Somerset, and Garrett. Regardless of ideological leanings, the tension and potential impacts on local government operations and residents is notable at a time when recent history was relatively calm by comparison. State agencies are no strangers to the consequences as well, with agencies like the Maryland State Department of Education experiencing the potential loss of significant federal funding in response to making the statewide school system one that recognizes, instills, and appreciates diversity, equity, and inclusion.

It is anticipated that US Supreme Court cases as well as those of the lower courts and federal initiatives to repeal DEI programming will continue. With the very real and fraught climate around these issues, county and state representatives will come together during the 2025 MACo Summer Conference to discuss both the challenges and opportunities in Maryland communities. The Wednesday forum session, “The DEI Divide: Navigating Public Service in an Increasingly Divisive World,” will feature perspectives of individuals experiencing the division and explore viable pathways forward.

The 2025 MACo Summer Conference will be held at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, MD from August 13-16. This year’s theme is “Funding the Future.” More information can be found on our conference website.

Learn more about MACo’s Summer Conference: