This Week in ESG and Impact Investing

In recent discussions surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), a faulty narrative has gained traction, painting these efforts as ideologically driven movements destined for failure. This perspective oversimplifies and misrepresents the complex history and goals of DEI and ESG.  Firstly, the historical roots of DEI are often overlooked. Contrary to claims that DEI is a recent or ideologically monolithic movement, its origins trace back centuries, notably to the Quakers in 1650 who opposed slavery. This long history challenges the notion that DEI is merely a modern ideological construct, instead highlighting it as an evolving response to enduring social injustices. The assertion that DEI is an infiltration of Marxist ideology into institutions is another false oversimplification. DEI initiatives are not about enforcing a uniformity of thought. Rather, they seek to address systemic inequities and foster an environment where di...