DEI Initiatives Under a New Administration

Cynthia Featherson, California CASA DEI Manager
2/1/25

Leadership changes often shift organizational priorities, impacting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. California CASA remains committed to advancing DEI while ensuring alignment with regulations. We encourage all 44 network programs to assess their DEI strategies. Below is an overview of potential shifts and adaptation strategies.

1. Understanding the New Policy Landscape

  • Federal and State Guidelines Changes at federal and state levels may influence DEI practices, including compliance, hiring, training, and reporting. Stay informed on updates from the EEOC, DOL, and state legislation to maintain compliance and effectiveness.

2. Conducting a DEI Program Audit

  • Reviewing Goals Ensure DEI goals align with new regulations and your mission. Adjust activities that risk non-compliance while upholding core commitments.

  • Engaging Stakeholders Engage staff, volunteers, and board members for feedback to ground audits in compliance and lived experiences.

3. Strategies for Navigating Shifts

  • Refine, Don’t Halt Refine programs under scrutiny and explore alternative funding sources to sustain efforts.

  • Focus on Training and Metrics Prioritize bias and inclusion training. Use metrics to showcase program benefits like reduced turnover and higher satisfaction.

4. Sustaining Momentum

  • Coalitions and Advocacy Join coalitions and networks to share best practices. Advocate for DEI by emphasizing moral and operational benefits like innovation and retention.

  • Long-Term Vision Regularly revisit strategies, celebrate milestones, and plan for growth to ensure DEI remains integral.

In Closing Adaptability and stakeholder engagement are key to sustaining DEI initiatives. For support, contact Cynthia Featherson at cfeatherson@californiacasa.org. Together, we can prioritize equity to better serve children and communities.