In his first week in office, President Donald Trump issued executive orders aimed to reduce diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. He and many other conservative voices have been critical of the programs. Some have even called them racist. 

Supporters of DEI initiatives argue the programming creates environments where all people regardless of their background can thrive. 

Today on The Metro, we’re taking a look at the future of DEI initiatives in the U.S. 

Guests: 

• Ella F. Washington: Organizational psychologist, professor of practice at Georgetown University, and the author of the book “Necessary Journey: Making Real Progress on Equity and Inclusion.”
• Rachael Allen: Co-founder of Centric Place, a co-working space and incubator for local entrepreneurs. 

We also asked listeners:

“Should diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives be shut down? Have they been effective?”

Adella in Detroit said: “So DEI in my perspective was needed due to exclusions of African Americans in corporate jobs. Hiring based on merit was not working.”

Use the media player above to hear the full conversation.

Tomorrow’s question: What are you doing to reduce waste?

Join the conversation by calling 313-577-1019 or leaving us an Open Mic message on the WDET app.

More stories from The Metro on Jan. 29, 2025: 

• Michigan’s gubernatorial race isn’t until November 2026, but several prominent politicians have already declared their candidacy. Bridge Michigan Reporter Simon Schuster returns to the show to help us breakdown Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s time in office and who could be Michigan’s next governor. 

• Legal scholar and University of Michigan law professor Michelle Adams joined the show discuss her new book, “The Containment: Detroit, the Supreme Court, and the Battle for Racial Justice in the North.” 

• Egg prices have soared across the country in recent months, with the average price of a dozen eggs in Michigan hovering at $5. Kevin Cotter, professor and chair of Wayne State University’s Department of Economics, joined the show to discuss what’s affecting the price of eggs, groceries and inflation more broadly. 

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on-demand.