Resistance and backlash from the perspective of PK-12 educational diversity, equity, and inclusion professionals (DEIP) in a predominantly White Midwestern state

This Mixed Methods Research (MMR) study examined the phenomena of organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) ‘resistance’ and ‘backlash’ as they affected diversity, equity, and inclusion professionals (DEIPs) and their efforts to promote DEI within the Iowa PK-12 education system. The study was conducted during a period when new anti-DEI legislation (HF802) had just become law. The topline findings of the study were that DEI resistance and DEI backlash undergirded by colorblind systemic racism exists in Iowa’s PK-12 schools; that performative diversity is the most common type of DEI resistance; and that resistance is most visible in suburban school districts. That said, this study also found that not all DEIPs are affected by DEI resistance and backlash in the same way. Specifically, DEIPs of color are much more likely to experience DEI resistance and backlash than their white counterparts.