Chicago Tribune

Commentary: The fog of artificial impact and the curse of ‘performative DEI’

In an era where social and environmental consciousness is increasingly valued, companies have recognized the importance of projecting a positive image of their impact on society. They strive to appear as champions of diversity, equity and inclusivity (DEI) both internally and externally. However, beneath the surface of these well-crafted narratives lies a murky reality: companies engage in ...
Tiara Hughes, center, instructs students Jocelyn Wong, left, and Jane Katwai in a graduate-level design studio at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

In an era where social and environmental consciousness is increasingly valued, companies have recognized the importance of projecting a positive image of their impact on society.

They strive to appear as champions of diversity, equity and inclusivity (DEI) both internally and externally. However, beneath the surface of these well-crafted narratives lies a murky reality: companies engage in performative practices, appearing committed to equitable workplaces and community welfare while doing the bare minimum to effect real change. This “fog of artificial impact” is a smoke screen that obscures the true intentions and actions of

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