Is DEI Dead? | Back to School Resources

Is DEI dead? It depends on what we mean by DEI. That’s the provocative question posed by When We Erase DEI and Civil Rights Protections, We Erase Ourselves, an article by Maha Elgenaidi that warns how dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts—and with them civil rights protections—does not eliminate bias; rather, it allows it to grow unchecked. 

By DEI, we mean intentional practices, policies, and educational frameworks designed to recognize and challenge bias, foster inclusive environments, and ensure access and respect for all—regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or background.

We strongly encourage everyone to study, understand, and value the full and often untold history of the diverse Americans who have shaped our nation. Doing so not only honors their legacy but also strengthens our democracy and helps build communities where everyone is seen, supported, and empowered. Read the article here.

Educator Seminars on Islamophobia and Antisemitism

(Delivered in 2024–2025 at over 100 schools and districts across the country)

To deepen understanding of Islamophobia, antisemitism, and anti-Arab bias—and to equip educators with effective responses—consider hosting one of our two school-based seminars:

Seminar 1: Standing Together—Addressing Islamophobia and Antisemitism in Schools

This 90–150 minute seminar, led by both Muslim-Arab and Jewish speakers, provides educators, administrators, and staff with tools to recognize, prevent, and respond to Islamophobia and antisemitism in educational settings. Using real-life scenarios and practical strategies, participants learn how to foster safer, more inclusive classrooms where every student feels respected and supported. Schedule here.

Seminar 2: Understanding Islamophobia and Its Intersections with Anti-Arab and Anti-Palestinian Bias in Education

This 90–120 minute seminar highlights the experiences of Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian students. It explores the historical and contemporary roots of Islamophobia and its intersections with anti-Arab and anti-Palestinian bias, examines their impact on student well-being and academic success, and equips school communities with concrete strategies to affirm student identity and strengthen belonging. Schedule here.

For This Academic Year Planning

Prevent bullying in your school by integrating year-round curriculum that introduces students to the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and faiths that make up our nation’s pluralism. By exposing students to this material, schools can raise awareness, build empathy, and create a safer and more inclusive learning environment for all.

Bring History and Social Studies to Life Through Live Speakers!

Available in person or virtually for your classroom

Consider including live speakers and panelists for students grades 7-12 as follows:

Intercultural Panels with Indigenous, African, Latino/Hispanic, Asian, Jewish and Muslim American speakers that supplement the study of American history, colonialism, racism, and American pluralism. Topics include: Countering Bullying with Knowledge, Civility, and Respect and Countering Bigotry and Racism through Calls to Action. Available in 1-to-2-hour formats. Schedule here.

Interreligious Panels with Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, and Hindu American speakers that supplement the study of world religions and contemporary issues. Topics include: Living the Faith, Shared Values, Religious Holidays, Women, Peacemaking and many more. Available in 1-to-2-hour formats. Schedule here.

Muslim American speakers on topics that supplement the study of Islam in world history, the Middle East, and contemporary issues. Topics include: Getting to Know Muslim Americans and Their Faith, A History of Muslims in America, Muslim Contributions to Civilization, Muslim Women Beyond the Stereotypes, Islamophobia and Its Impact, and Ramadan and Fasting. Available in 45-90-minute formats. Schedule here.

StopBullying.Gov

Our kids are hurting in schools. Since October 7th, 2023, too many are facing bullying and harassment rooted in Islamophobia, antisemitism, and anti-Arab bigotry. These forms of bias not only harm individual students but also erode the sense of safety and belonging every child deserves in the classroom.

For guidance and resources on how to prevent and address bullying, visit the U.S. Department of Education’s official site: www.StopBullying.gov.

Enhance Your Inclusive Leadership Initiatives with Live & Virtual Inclusion and Belonging Trainings

ING’s Inclusion and Belonging trainings are designed to complement long-term Inclusive Leadership programs by helping participants create environments where everyone feels valued, seen, and respected.

Our training goes beyond acknowledging differences, focusing on actively building spaces where individuals experience a true sense of belonging. These sessions are particularly tailored for the following teams:

– Educators grades K-12, visit this page 
– College staff and faculty, visit this page 
– Corporate teams, visit this page 
– Government staff, visit this page 
– Police officers, visit this page 
– Court administrators, visit this page
– Healthcare staff, visit this page

Stand with Us to Build A More Inclusive America