Belonging: The Missing Piece of the DEI Discussion

Feb 5

There’s a lot of talk right now about DEI—diversity, equity, and inclusion. And let’s be real, most of it isn’t good. The conversation has shifted in a way that’s making people question its value, its purpose, and even whether it should exist at all. Some are calling it a war on DEI, and it has me thinking: What are we actually fighting for here?

When we remove DEI, we’re not just removing policies—we’re removing people.Because at its core, DEI isn’t just about hiring quotas or corporate statements. It’s about belonging. It’s about making sure that workplaces are safe, inclusive, and built for everyone—not just a select few.

This topic is personal to me on many levels. I didn’t just learn about inequity in the workplace—I lived it.

I’ve been the only woman in a boardroom, the youngest person at the table, the one forced to prove my worth three times over just to be taken seriously. I’ve had to pump breast milk in a bathroom stall because my office didn’t have a space for working mothers.

I know what it feels like to be in a room that wasn’t designed for me. And that’s exactly why this conversation matters.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

The personal experiences that shaped my perspective on workplace inequality
Why the DEI conversation has become so divisive—and what we’re getting wrong
How privilege shows up in ways we don’t always recognize
Why belonging—not just diversity—is the key to real change
How businesses can move past performative actions and into real impact
And so much more!

“While diversity and equity mean everyone gets a seat at the table, inclusion is why people choose to stay.”

— Ashley Logan

Some key takeaways from the episode:

DEI impacts everyone. There’s a war on DEI happening right now, but what many don’t realize is that these policies protect everyone, including women, parents, people with disabilities, and so many others. If DEI disappears, so do the rights and workplace protections that so many of us rely on.
The workplace isn’t equal for all. As a woman in business, I’ve seen firsthand how different the experience is depending on your gender, race, background, or circumstances. To pretend that everyone starts from the same place is to ignore reality.
Listening is leadership. It’s easy to get defensive when conversations about privilege and inclusion come up. But true leadership means listening, even when it’s uncomfortable. I had to do that in my own business, and it changed everything.
Equity expands opportunities. It’s about lifting everyone up, not taking anything away. Hiring with intention, creating policies that support all employees, and fostering a culture of belonging doesn’t mean anyone loses out. It means we all gain a more fair and supportive workplace.
Belonging is the missing piece. It’s not enough to invite people in—we have to make sure they feel safe, valued, and supported once they’re there. A diverse team means nothing if people don’t feel like they truly belong.
Empathy is key. Whether you’re leading a company, a team, or just trying to make an impact in your community, it all starts with empathy. Seeing the world through someone else’s eyes makes all the difference.
Progress takes work—but it’s worth it. The conversations around DEI aren’t always easy. I’ve had moments of doubt, fear, and exhaustion. But doing what’s right isn’t about comfort—it’s about creating lasting change.

Listen to the full episode at the links below:

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on Spotify

Watch on YouTube

If 2024 taught me anything, it’s that we can’t always control what life throws at us—but we can control how we move through it. We can choose to see the beauty in the burn, the lessons in the loss, and the expansion that comes after everything crumbles.

And if you’re in a season where life feels hard—I see you. I know how heavy it can feel. But I also know this: you are being shaped for something even bigger.

So, take a deep breath. Trust that you are stronger than you think.

Unapologetically yours,

xx Ashley Logan

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