Episode #10
Understanding DEI Rollbacks and Unlawful Discrimination with Dr. ClauDean Kizart
As organizations respond to shifting federal guidance and growing scrutiny around DEI, many are scaling back their efforts due to uncertainty or fear. But what if the real risk isn’t doing too much, but not doing enough? In this episode of Disability@Work , host Ashley Sims sits down with Dr. ClauDean Kizart—education leader, author of Beyond Implicit and Explicit Bias , and founder of Lightwork Equitable Solutions—to unpack what’s actually changing, what’s being misunderstood, and where employers may be getting it wrong. Together, they explore why inclusion should never have been treated as a standalone program, how longstanding civil rights protections continue to shape workplace responsibilities, and what practical, compliant inclusion looks like today. Dr. Kizart also challenges leaders to rethink equity, prioritize lived experience in decision-making, and move beyond performative efforts toward real, sustainable change. If your organization is navigating uncertainty around DEI, this conversation offers a grounded, actionable path forward— rooted in inclusion without exclusion. In this episode, we cover: Why many organizations are pulling back on DEI—and what’s driving the confusion What federal guidance actually says (and doesn’t say) about discrimination and workplace practices The critical difference between equality and equity—and why it matters for business outcomes Why treating inclusion as a “program” sets organizations up to fail How the lack of diverse perspectives can create blind spots and business risk Resources & Links: Email: dockizart@gmail.com Book: Beyond Implicit and Explicit Bias Lightwork Equitable Solutions LLC: https://lightworkeq.com/ Dept of Justice - Office of the Attorney General (July 29, 2025): Memorandum for All Federal Agencies - Guidance for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Unlawful Discrimination About the Guest: Dr. ClauDean “Dr. K” Kizart is an author, educator, and founder of LightWork Equitable Solutions. She helps organizations uncover bias and build more equitable, inclusive outcomes. About the Show: Disability@Work is a Disability Solutions podcast. Hosted by Marketing & Communications Director, Ashley Sims , each episode offers practical insight for employers, HR and talent leaders, and advocates working to build more inclusive organizations. Learn more at DisabilityTalent.org.
