Where We Stand as a Foundation
As an organization committed to achieving health equity, Missouri Foundation for Health is deeply concerned by anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) legislation proposed by Missouri lawmakers. These legislative efforts, as well as those in other states and nationally, threaten to undermine the progress we’re striving to achieve.
Imagine a future when we’ve achieved health equity – when all families can buy nourishing food and send their children to well-funded and high-achieving schools. When health care systems provide respectful, high-quality care for all. When everyone lives in thriving communities with clean water, safe and affordable housing, and vibrant green spaces. When fair-wage jobs with good working conditions are widely available, and all Missourians are treated with the dignity they deserve.
It’s an enticing vision, but we have work to do before we get there. Still today, there are laws and institutional practices that lead to fewer opportunities in many areas including employment, lending, education, health care access, and housing for some Missourians. But we can change this. DEI initiatives help us name and address these issues.
Further, diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential for creating a prosperous society. Those who would gut DEI efforts may not realize the unexpected repercussions on the state’s economy. A recent report commissioned by Health Forward Foundation underscores the economic impact of anti-DEI policies, projecting potential losses of nearly $2.6 billion in annual gross product and over 23,000 jobs in Missouri by 2030. Such losses would stem from declines in travel, tourism, and business investment, and tarnish the state’s reputation as a welcoming environment. The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry also echoes similar concerns that anti-DEI legislation is bad for business.
Anti-DEI legislation is not just expensive – it sends the message that certain people are expendable – that their rights and well-being are less important than maintaining systems of power and privilege. This is antithetical to the values of inclusion and opportunity that are supposed to define the American Dream.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not buzzwords; rather, they are guideposts to help us realize the promises made by our country’s founders. Our strength lies in our ability to embrace these principles.
While we continue to navigate the complexities of health equity, we must move forward with strategies that advance the health and well-being of all. Let us collectively commit to building a future where all Missourians have a fair and just opportunity to live their healthiest lives.
