"The presence of DEI in our workplaces and in the collective consciousness is ubiquitous and undeniable—so much so that the words and the concepts behind them seem to have lost their meaning. What began in 2020 as intense self-reflection and an earnest desire to do better (among some of us at least) has become rote; for many in management, it’s just another box to be ticked. For those of us seeking equity and belonging, however, the urgency has not abated. Quite the contrary. Black people, indigenous people, immigrants, LGBTQ+ folks and other marginalized groups are finding their histories, their basic rights, and in some cases their very existences debated and legislated away, all the while businesses are twisting themselves in knots to “achieve” diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. We will examine DEI practices and initiatives in the lighting industry: comparing it to the world at large (spoiler: it’s not pretty); unpacking the resistance to change that is pervasive in certain corners of the industry; identifying performative acts, missteps, and pitfalls; and illustrating honest actions that can improve not only the office, but the world beyond as well."