As we approach the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, we are experiencing an onslaught to dismantle and destroy diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts across the country. Dr. King was mischaracterized, misunderstood and, ultimately, assassinated for his efforts. DEI is similarly under attack.

Like the efforts against Dr. King, it is clear that these anti-DEI efforts are grounded in an intentional misunderstanding and mischaracterization of DEI. Opponents of DEI have developed a "DEI straw man" to attack. With this strawman (which is also as much of a bogeyman), opponents have sought to create outrage and fear.