Navigating DEI Cuts, Crisis, & Leadership Growth in 2025
GLG Insights | Veronica Grigoletto | February 4, 2025
Why Cultural Strategy Matters More Than Ever
As the political climate and budget cuts continue to impact organizations across the globe, one area that is often among the first to face reductions is Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This growing trend of DEI cuts can significantly affect the future of businesses, as these initiatives play a crucial role in fostering innovation, ensuring employee loyalty, and ultimately securing long-term success for large, medium and small companies.
Recent studies show that companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 36% more likely to outperform on profitability. Inclusive organizations are also six times more likely to be innovative. The undeniable link between DEI and business success cannot be ignored. However, the reality is that DEI has already been insufficient for many marginalized groups, especially for Black leaders. A recent study found that only 1.6% of Fortune 500 CEOs are Black, underlining the gap in leadership opportunities and the deep-rooted barriers in corporate America.
This presents a dire reality. While DEI efforts have existed, they have often been inadequate, particularly for Black and marginalized people. Now, with the likelihood of more DEI cuts, those already limited efforts may evaporate. The potential impact of these cuts could be devastating—leading to a weakened organizational culture, disengaged employees, and an inability to compete in an increasingly diverse global market.
Navigating the Erasure of DEI and Budget Cuts; and Preparing for Potential Shifts
As we approach the summer of 2025, companies should be prepared for a difficult season. History has shown that during periods of DEI program reductions, unrest and instability often follow. In the past, such cuts have led to tensions within organizations, as employees feel disconnected from leadership, especially when it comes to matters of inclusion and equity. We risk witnessing a contraction in the workforce, particularly as marginalized groups feel the absence of the critical support and initiatives that have been designed to help them succeed.
The cost of reducing DEI programs is not just financial. These cuts can have severe consequences on morale, engagement, and even productivity. Companies that decide to reduce DEI efforts without understanding the deep, systemic impact this could have on their culture risk creating an environment of resentment, disengagement, and disruption.
How to Keep DEI Integrated, No Matter What
Here are some actionable strategies to help businesses maintain DEI efforts while remaining cost-effective:
Foster Open and Inclusive Communication: Ensure that communication across the organization remains open, transparent, and inclusive. Implement regular feedback channels, town halls, or surveys where employees can voice their concerns, especially around the topic of DEI.
Create Low-Cost, High-Impact Mentorship Programs: Develop mentorship programs that specifically support underrepresented groups. These programs don’t need a large budget but are incredibly effective in creating leadership pathways and ensuring that diverse voices are heard and valued.
Leverage Virtual DEI Training: Virtual workshops and online resources can be highly effective in maintaining DEI education at a fraction of the cost of in-person sessions. Offer ongoing training on topics such as unconscious bias, inclusive leadership, and cultural competence.
Why Cultural Intelligence Is a Strategic Advantage
Companies that continue to prioritize DEI—even during economic challenges—will set themselves apart in the market. Research by the Boston Consulting Group found that companies with diverse management teams report 19% higher revenue from innovation, while inclusive teams show 22% higher productivity. These long-term benefits are crucial for organizations that want to thrive in a competitive marketplace.
Glass Ladder Group, specializes in helping organizations navigate these shifting priorities. Through sustainable and equitable communication practices, we’ll help you maintain a thriving culture that drives employee engagement and organizational success.
Let’s work together to ensure your organization continues to innovate, lead, and stay inclusive—no matter the cuts or challenges ahead.
The Fires in LA: A Crisis on Both Personal and Professional Fronts
Dear friends and colleagues,
As we watch the devastating wildfires unfold in Los Angeles, I want to take a moment to speak directly from the heart — both personally and professionally — about the impact of this crisis.
On a personal level, the fires are terrifying. I’ve seen firsthand the destruction that natural disasters can bring, and the uncertainty it creates for families, communities, and entire cities. My thoughts are with everyone affected — the lives lost, the homes destroyed, and the trauma endured. This isn’t just a headline for me; it’s something I feel deeply, as I know many of you do as well.
On a professional level, the fires are a reminder of how much we need to be leaders in times of crisis. It’s not just about doing business as usual, but about showing up for our communities, our employees, and those in need.
At Glass Ladder Group, we work tirelessly to build inclusive, culturally intelligent organizations. But it’s during times of hardship like this that our commitment to those values is truly tested. How we respond matters. The way we show up in moments like this defines the integrity of our leadership.
Now is the time for action. This is when we must speak up and contribute. Whether it's providing aid to those impacted, offering support to employees dealing with the fallout, or using our platform to raise awareness — our role is to lead with compassion and courage. In the face of such devastation, we must show resilience, in our businesses, and in our hearts.
I stand with all those affected by this tragedy, and I encourage every leader to reflect on how they can make a difference. At Glass Ladder Group, we are committed to supporting both our communities and our clients through every challenge, and we will continue to do so in the face of this crisis.
Please stay safe, stay strong, and let’s continue to show up for each other during this difficult time.
Warmly,
Sabrina K. Garba
Founder, Glass Ladder Group
2025, We Are Ready For You.
As we reflect on the challenges and lessons of the past year, one thing is clear: 2025 presents challenges and opportunities for every organization. In the wake of shifting market dynamics, including DEI program cuts and unprecedented crises like the California wildfires, now more than ever, businesses need to rethink their approach to leadership, culture, and inclusivity.
At Glass Ladder Group, we’ve been at the forefront of helping organizations navigate these changes. As we move into the new year, we are more committed than ever to empowering our clients to design and sustain cultures of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity — no matter the challenges.
Why We’re the Partner You Need Right Now
We understand that organizations are facing tough decisions, whether it's scaling back on DEI or grappling with crisis management. But these are not the times to pull back — they are the moments when you need a strategy that keeps you aligned with your values while staying ahead of the curve.
Glass Ladder Group has a proven track record of providing actionable, results-driven solutions. We don’t just talk about DEI, cultural intelligence, or leadership transformation — we help you put these principles into practice in a way that aligns with your organizational goals and gets tangible results.
In 2025, we are expanding our offerings to ensure that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our clients. From enhanced mentorship programs to specialized workshops designed to tackle the latest DEI challenges, we’re creating resources that are both innovative and practical.
What We Offer in 2025
Customized Mentorship Programs: Our mentorship initiatives go beyond generic advice. We tailor each program to meet the unique needs of your team and leadership. This personalized approach helps your employees feel supported and equipped to handle day-to-day challenges and crisis situations.
Targeted DEI Workshops: The landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion is evolving, and our workshops are designed to keep you ahead of the curve. These sessions address the real-world issues that organizations face today — from ensuring continued DEI focus during budget cuts to fostering a culture of resilience in the wake of crisis.
Community Engagement Strategies: In the face of adversity, it’s not enough to maintain a business-as-usual attitude. We’ll guide you in developing community engagement programs that not only benefit the wider community but also build a more engaged, connected, and resilient workforce.
We are here to ensure that your organization survives, and thrives through transformation. Whether you're tackling challenges head-on or preparing for future opportunities, our commitment to your success is unwavering.
Let’s build the future of your organization together — reach out today to learn how we can support your goals in 2025 and beyond.