Chapter 10: DEIA … The Final Frontier? Going Where No One Has Gone Before?

Against the backdrop of a growing backlash to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), this chapter examines the persistent struggles of library and information science (LIS) professionals and scholars in addressing DEIA in both practice and academia. Despite numerous initiatives, traditional approaches in higher education have proven unsustainable, with little change in the experiences of historically marginalised students and faculty. Following the 2020 police killing of George Floyd, a national ‘racial reckoning’ prompted corporations and universities to issue public commitments to racial justice and launch DEIA initiatives. However, by 2023, amidst mounting far-right opposition, many corporations began laying off DEIA staff. The re-election of the 47th President, coupled with executive orders dismantling DEIA programmes, has left institutions uncertain about the future of DEIA officers, curriculum, and offices. Several states have also introduced legislation curtailing DEIA efforts in higher education. Compounding this, a 2023 US Supreme Court ruling ended Affirmative Action, limiting colleges’ ability to consider race in admissions. These developments – alongside the rollback of civil rights protections and the rise of racially biased algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) – signal a potential endgame for DEIA. In response, we argue for a new paradigm: one that moves beyond superficial, ‘check-the-box’ efforts. This paradigm must be systemic, data-driven, and culturally competent – addressing structural inequities, prioritising accessibility, and embedding inclusion across institutional practices. As LIS professionals, we must reimagine DEIA for a sustainable future – one that ensures equity and justice.