This symposium explored how rapidly shifting legal and policy landscapes have reshaped issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), free expression, and state employment law in today’s workplace. It brought together leading academics, practitioners, and policymakers to examine how employers and employees navigate these evolving challenges.

The program featured three panels addressing the history and legality of DEI initiatives in the workplace, labor organizing, and the ability of state actors, practitioners, and worker advocates to sustain and advance workplace equity amid shifting federal policies. Panelists considered how current legal frameworks support or hinder efforts to define and achieve equity at work. Each session concluded with an audience Q&A.

Panel One: An Overview of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives in the Workplace
Moderator: Professor Sachin Pandya

Moderator: Professor Michael Fischl
Professor Charlotte Garden
Professor Risa Lieberwitz
Ms. Nishelli Ahmed

Panel Three: The Trajectory of State Law in the Workplace: Employment Practitioners, Government Leaders, and Worker Advocates in Action
Moderator: Professor Jon Bauer
Professor Michael Wishnie
Attorney Natalie Braswell
Attorney Claire Howard
Ms. Nelli Jara