The diversity vs. meritocracy debate is back in the spotlight

The high-profile resignation of Harvard’s first Black president, Claudine Gay, has once again thrust the conversation about diversity, equity and inclusion programs, or DEI, into the national spotlight. How do we reconcile the tension between honoring individual meritocracy and the need for systemic changes to address historical inequities? Design Observer Editor-in-Chief and DEI expert Ellen McGirt joins The Excerpt to share her perspectives on this emotionally charged issue.