DEI hiring practices are showing its ugly head again. This time a DEI is accusing her supervisor of prioritizing Merit over identity in hiring practices. This debate continues between Merit and diversity inclusion when hiring someone. This time it’s with the Oregon Department of Forestry
Contentious Hiring Practices
Once more diversity hiring is showing its head with the Oregon Department of Forestry . Megan Donecker, a former DEI strategy officer, lodged a complaint against Mike Shaw, her supervisor, arguing his preference for merit over gender identity in recruitment decisions. This complaint led to Shaw being placed on administrative leave, triggering controversy. The main issue is 6 employees felt that the pronoun dialogue was not being prioritized .
Donecker accused the department of remaining a “boys club” that sidelined her DEI efforts. Allegations of sexist jokes and undermining DEI initiatives by senior staff further complicate the department’s internal dynamics. already a volatile issue, the diversity and inclusion debate has extended itself.
Who would have thought hiring the best person for the job would get you in bother https://t.co/yq7kFuoVy1
— 💜🤍💚D1anaLawler 💪🟥⬛️🟧 (@SmallBu23589383) October 12, 2024
Forestry Department Under Scrutiny
The Oregon Department of Forestry, which manages 16 million acres and serves as the biggest fire department in the state, is currently under investigation for various allegations of discriminatory practices and a culture of retaliation. There were about twelve complaints made against the leadership, including a hostile culture toward women and a lack of diversity. State officials are keeping a close eye on these complaints.
“Providing a safe, diverse and inclusive workplace is a shared core value and priority of both the department and the Board of Forestry.” It’s no longer acceptable to hire based upon one’s qualifications.
The investigation continues under state oversight and there’s an emphasis on maintaining employee protection from retaliation. Leadership changes and structural revisions may follow depending on the findings.
Pink-haired DEI trainer slams Oregon forestry bosses 'for hiring on basis of merit not gender or identity' | Daily Mail Online https://t.co/wXoARXmxP8
— davidrieff (@davidrieff) October 12, 2024
Political and Social Reactions
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek backs DEI efforts, despite the objections. The governor’s office is also pushing for this extremist position.. Brenda McComb, vice chair of the Oregon Board of Forestry, expressed dissatisfaction with the progress, emphasizing the need for better diversity representation within the department’s ranks.
“A pink-haired DEI trainer has slammed Oregon’s forestry department for hiring on the basis of merit rather than identity.”
The debate continues to resonate across the state and nationally, symbolizing the complex balance between integrating DEI initiatives and maintaining performance standards based on merit.
