Chatham County residents challenge DEI program for promoting social engineering

Concerns over the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program in Chatham County took center stage during a recent government meeting, sparking heated discussions among officials and community members. A speaker raised alarms about the content of the DEI training materials, claiming they promote divisive categorizations based on race, gender, and other identities rather than recognizing individuals as unique beings.

The speaker expressed discomfort with the program's portrayal of certain groups, particularly highlighting a section that labels individuals as "privileged" based on their race, gender, and socioeconomic status. They argued that this approach fosters division rather than unity, stating, "This program is nothing more than social engineering and has no place anywhere in government."

Specific examples from the DEI materials were cited, including references to "microaggressions" and the suggestion that police unjustly target certain demographics. The speaker emphasized their belief that law enforcement focuses on criminal behavior, not on racial profiling.

In a passionate plea, they called for the immediate cancellation of DEI funding, asserting that taxpayers prioritize hiring qualified professionals based on merit rather than personal characteristics. The speaker concluded by indicating that the decision on DEI funding would influence whether they would pursue the matter further.

As the meeting progressed, other attendees, including Doug Lawrie, prepared to voice their opinions, indicating that the conversation around DEI in Chatham County is far from over. The outcome of this discussion could have significant implications for the county's approach to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.