WIAS8: Is DEI dead? Inclusion in a post-Trumpian world

We kicked off our 2025 Workplace Inclusion Alliance events with a bang this week, and what a thought-provoking gathering it was!

Held at Experian and joined by a brilliant group of inclusion advocates, the session focused on one of the most pressing issues facing the DE&I community: the growing impact of U.S. federal pushback against diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes.

During the session, participants shared reflections and examples of how organisations across industries are adjusting—or struggling to adjust—to evolving external pressures. While the challenges are real, what stood out even more was the shared sense of resilience and renewed determination to ensure that the push for equity and inclusion continues, regardless of what labels or policies it falls under.

Our discussions went beyond the obstacles and we explored solutions, strategy, and sustained commitment.

We were honoured to be joined by two exceptional guest speakers:

• Mary Ann Sieghart, from The Authority Gap Consultancy, spoke about the systemic biases still present in our workplaces—and how to challenge them.

• Don Randall, from Our Safer City, whose insights into culture and safety created meaningful links between inclusion.

Their contributions sparked deep conversations and reminded us of why this work matters so much—especially in times of challenge.

Gary Ford in conversation with Mary-Ann Seighart

We are incredibly grateful to the many brilliant individuals who joined the session and enriched the discussion with their insights and to Experian who hosted us.

We’re excited to build on this momentum throughout 2025—because now more than ever, inclusive workplaces are not just important, they are essential. If you are keen to join our Workplace Inclusion Alliance, please get in touch.