A Genealogy of “Diversity”: From the 1960s to Problematic Diversity Agendas and Contemporary Activism

This chapter charts the development of the diversity framework. It traces the roots of equity and inclusion efforts from the 1940s to today, presenting critical moments impacting contemporary diversity, equity, and inclusion practices and contributing to ongoing challenges. By illustrating the limitations of past and present DEI frameworks, this chapter depicts the backdrop of contemporary diversity issues. It illustrates how failed diversity moments in contemporary higher education reflect the problematic evolution of equity and inclusion discourse and practices, and the institutionalization of inequity in contemporary “diversity talk.”