Introduction: Resistance and Struggles in the pursuit of global change
In this six-part series, writers for The Diversity Storr, highlight the increased resistance and backlash to DEI efforts, and the nature of such resistance. Resistance to social change is common, and often led by political parties from the right and far right, who believe that advancements in equalities for minority groups threaten their way of life and society more broadly. Each article in this series provides insights into the current global picture surrounding resistance to DEI, specifically in Western societies. Incorporating current research and data, it is hoped the articles will help inform practitioners and other champions of diversity about the nature of resistance, its socio-political context, and other dynamics.
Resistance and Struggles in the pursuit of global change
For those working across the DEI sector, resistance and backlash are common. This is part of the work we do. However, in recent years, the amount of resistance and backlash has increased significantly, with the magnitude of such campaigns being far reaching. There have been several pivotal moments which have proved influential in contributing to the current climate; Brexit in the UK, and the 2016 US Presidential election and Donald Trump. Both campaigns and platforms used narratives and messages targeting minority groups, such as migrants (anti-immigration rhetoric), and incited fear about gender diversity and transgender people. We saw slogans being parachuted into the public and political realm, such as “go woke go broke!” – a statement used by right wing and conservative political and social commentators to suggest that when corporations engage in DEI issues and social causes (such as the Black Lives Matter Movement) they will ‘go broke’ and will lose revenue and profits because customers will turn away and boycott the brands or businesses. Recent evidence suggests quite the contrary however, and that customers are more socially minded and want businesses to be socially conscious, minimise impacts on the planet and climate, and do no harm to social and minoritized groups.
Recently in my own work and research, I have engaged with a theoretical framework called ‘heteroactivism’, which examines specific resistance to advancements for LGBTIQ+ equalities. I have written about this in the conversation, and explained how sport has become a key platform to advance anti-LGBTIQ+ messaging and to exclude sexual and gender minorities. We have seen bans introduced in several global sports, such as World Rugby, World Athletics, and a series of UK based sports. There have been protests and events organised to disrupt drag shows in Australia, and even a anti-trans demonstration in Melbourne which was attended by neo-Nazis.
At the time of writing, the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum approaches. The amendment means the Voice may make representations to the Parliament and the Executive government of the Commonwealth, on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Several Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander led organisations have highlighted that the Voice will provide an opportunity to improve health, education, housing and wellbeing in Indigenous communities and offers solutions in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
Australia has seen first-hand, a targeted and coordinated campaign to resist equality and diversity efforts. The No campaign used Trump style politics to foster fear, spread misinformation and lies, to influence people to vote no in the referendum. These messages, including the aim of the Voice to Parliament, originating from the ‘Uluru statement from the heart,’ have been distorted and misrepresented. The No campaign has been spearheaded by the liberal party of Australia, with reports suggesting that their opposition is merely political – opposing the Labour Party is their strategy to try to win back voters at the next election. In any resistance and opposition to advancements in equalities for minority groups, there is always an agenda, often without grounds in rational debate. Take for example, sports introducing bans against trans athletes, when there are no trans athletes competing. Recently too, we saw the very messy and unfortunate incident involving the Spanish Women’s Football team, and the coach kiss a player on the lips without her consent. This made global headlines and highlighted a broader toxic culture surrounding individuals and the Spanish Football Federation.
For those working to introduce diversity initiatives or policies to improve and enhance diversity across social settings, the climate in which we operate has become extremely challenging, divisive, and politicised. At its core, diversity work aims to improve outcomes for diverse groups who have historically been marginalised and socially excluded. We want all people, regardless of their identities, to be able to flourish and lead lives which are free from discrimination, stigma, and exclusion.
But the climate created by those who resist diversity, is one in which they want to silence us, shut down debate and create a culture of toxicity. So, to those championing DEI efforts, know that the broader social and political climate you currently work in, is challenging and uncomfortable at times – but social change is never easy and takes time. Social issues are here to stay, and as society evolves, so must our understandings. Our public institutions must reflect increased diversity across society. However, we need to create spaces and promote dialogue, so that people feel confident to engage in conversations and talk to colleagues and other people about these important topics. My advice: use research, evidence, and data to help improve your decision making and arguments when trying to bring people along on the journey. I hope you enjoy this special series of articles, and encourage you to share with colleagues and friends, to foster courageous conversations and open dialogue.
Written by – Dr Ryan Storr, Founder – The Diversity Storr.