DEI officers, frustrated by insufficient resources and limited executive access, are increasingly resorting to legal action to combat workplace discrimination and bias, as evidenced by recent lawsuits against companies like Armstrong Teasdale LLP and Morgan Stanley. These professionals face significant barriers, including mandatory arbitration and career risks, that complicate their efforts to address inequities effectively. Despite these challenges, some companies have reportedly expanded their diversity programs, although overall DEI roles have faced cuts amid economic pressures and legal challenges to their practices.
See "Frustrated DEI Officers Risk Tackling Workplace Bias in Court", Khorri Atkinson, Bloomberg Law , July 19, 2024