Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV Season 5, Episode 3 Episode Title: DEI Backlash Guest: Dr. Enobong “Anna” Branch Diversity Matters with Oscar Holmes IV is a podcast that explores all things diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) related. In each episode, Oscar and his guests have lively discussions around DEI topics, explore the latest research on the topic, and discuss the implications so that listeners will be more knowledgeable about the topics and be able to apply the insights to their lives. Show Summary: “Despite efforts to dismantle DEI, our inherent differences remain. These differences will continue to shape our neighborhoods, school systems, and nation. Will we accept inequity and division or invest in an inclusive future for all?” — Anna Branch America's strength lies in its diversity. But as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts face scrutiny, how can we ensure the American Dream remains achievable for everyone? In this episode, we're privileged to have Dr. Enobong "Anna" Branch join us for an insightful discussion around this timely topic. Dr. Branch is the esteemed Senior Vice President for Equity at Rutgers University, where she provides strategic leadership to ensure equity is embedded across research, education, and public engagement for faculty, staff, and students. Drawing from her extensive expertise in confronting DEI challenges, Dr. Branch offers invaluable perspectives on navigating the evolving DEI landscape. Her insights illuminate pathways to overcome systemic barriers and build a more equitable future where opportunity knows no boundaries. 3 Exceptional Highlights: True progress in diversity and inclusion requires not only representation but also actively addressing the unique challenges faced by underrepresented groups in leadership roles. Schools must champion equity, not just equality. This means dismantling racial bias and fostering a truly inclusive environment for all students. The promise and myth of the "American Dream" being achievable through hard work resonates across racial/ethnic groups. However, this myth overlooks broader systemic factors, which can lead other minority groups to question why Black Americans haven't succeeded. Show Highlights: What lessons have you learned as a leader for equity at this moment? 08:15 - Anna Branch Embracing directionality and progress, even during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, is crucial for effective leadership. If we aren't intentional about creating environments that allow people of diverse backgrounds to thrive in higher education, we will be in trouble. What inspired you to write the book "Work in Black and White," and what should readers gain from it? 15:34 - Anna Branch The book aims to explore how workers themselves understand and experience labor market inequality, moving beyond trends and data. Changing labor dynamics challenged the job stability and American Dream notion of hard work alone leading to success, prompting the re-examining of these concepts through racial experiences. How can we address racial inequalities without conflating first-generation status? 19:41 - Anna Branch Being a first-generation student means navigating unspoken academic rules and norms that can pose challenges if not properly supported. Assumptions, stereotypes, and lack of representation can undermine the sense of belonging for students of color, regardless of their generational status. Is education alone enough to achieve the American Dream? 27:32 - Anna Branch Distressingly, Black women with terminal degrees can earn similar incomes as white men with only some college education, highlighting educational attainment not translating to equal economic opportunities across races. How can we approach the current level of backlash against DEI efforts today? 38:24 - Anna Branch Early DEI efforts (post-2020) prioritized hiring over tackling systemic issues