As the momentum of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement fades, we are seeing a conservative reaction aimed at dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, anti–critical race theory legislation, and other restrictive laws in response to the public outcry spurred by BLM. The conservative reaction emerged in response to increased support for DEI initiatives, often from wealthy white liberals. This support is evident in corporate America and elite higher education institutions where DEI programs are seen as necessary to fulfill the “lost promise” of the civil rights movement. However, the debate around DEI is overlooking a more profound issue: the material conditions affecting the majority of blacks.

Since the 2009 financial crisis, conditions for working-class and poor blacks have remained dire, while middle- and upper-class blacks have stabilized or recovered.¹ According to a Pew report, roughly two-thirds of blacks say they do not have enough income to lead the lives they desire. When broken down by class, 82 percent of lower-income earners and 64 percent of the middle class feel this way. The inability to live a meaningful life is directly tied to unmet basic needs, such as health care, stable jobs, quality education, and a crime-free environment. As a Pew Research Center report shows, the majority of blacks are most concerned with health care (66 percent), crime (58 percent), the economy and jobs (57 percent), and K–12 education (54 percent).²

Additionally, as of 2020, only 26 percent of black adults aged twenty-five or older have obtained a bachelor’s or advanced degree. Meanwhile, 32 percent have completed some college without obtaining a degree, and 42 percent have, at most, graduated from high school or earned an equivalent such as a GED. This means 74 percent of black adults do not hold a bachelor’s degree.³ Given these realities, why does the public conversation around DEI focus so heavily on expanding access to elite institutions? When we consider the material and educational needs of most blacks, why is the public framing of racial justice centered on DEI initiatives within these elite spaces? DEI’s disconnection from the economic and educational concerns of most blacks makes it appear hypocritical.