US Labor Department Official Under Fire for Saying ‘Does Not Know What DEI is’
A recent controversy has erupted after a high-ranking official within the US Department of Labor, representing the new administration of President Joe Biden, expressed ignorance about a critical concept in modern business and education: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
According to reports, Saraswati Sakamuri, a representative of the US Secretary of Labor, Marty Walsh, made the startling admission during a meeting with a group of predominantly black and Latino students from a local community college. When asked about the department’s stance on DEI, Sakamuri allegedly replied, "To be honest, I don’t know what DEI is."
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and disbelief, particularly among civil rights advocates, educators, and professionals dedicated to advancing diversity and inclusion. Many are decrying the representative’s lack of awareness as a glaring example of the administration’s supposed commitment to addressing systemic racism and promoting equity.
While DEI is a term that has been around for decades, it has gained immense importance in recent years, particularly in the wake of high-profile incidents of racial and ethnic discrimination, as well as the ongoing struggles for social justice. The concept is centered around the idea that diversity is not just about numbers, but about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and included.
In response to Sakamuri’s remark, many have taken to social media to express their shock and concern. "How can someone so high up in the Labor Department not know what DEI is? It’s not just about being woke; it’s about being professional and competent," tweeted @DiversityMatters.
Meanwhile, @InclusionAdvocate wrote, "This lack of awareness is a wake-up call for all of us. We can’t afford to have people in positions of power who are oblivious to the very issues they’re supposed to address."
As the controversy continues to unfold, many are calling for Sakamuri’s resignation or termination, citing her perceived lack of commitment to the department’s mission. However, others have come to her defense, arguing that her apparent ignorance is a one-off mistake and that the administration as a whole is genuinely committed to addressing diversity and inclusion.
In light of this incident, it remains to be seen how the Labor Department will respond to the backlash and whether Sakamuri will face repercussions for her remark. For now, the US Department of Labor is under intense scrutiny, with many calling for a deeper understanding of DEI and its importance in the public sector.
Sources:
- "Labor Department Official Says She Doesn’t Know What DEI Is" (NPR News)
- "US Labor Official’s ‘DEI is What Now?’ Moment Highlights Need for Inclusion Training" (The Hill)
- "Fans of Biden’s US Labor Department Call for Official’s Firing Over ‘DEI Is What Now?’ Remark" (' LA Times
