A groundbreaking study by the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI ) has sparked intense debate by revealing unintended consequences of caste-based Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ( DEI ) training programs. Conducted in partnership with Rutgers University, the study shows that teaching materials from Justice Labs—widely used in commercial and scientific spaces—may exacerbate anti-Hindu discrimination, promote dehumanizing rhetoric, and develop perceptions of bias. Critics have even called out media outlets like The New York Times and Bloomberg for allegedly suppressing the study ’s results, fueling fears over transparency and accountability in the DEI conversation.
Here are some points you ought to hear:
The Study’s Focus:
The Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI ) study, conducted in collaboration with Rutgers University, investigated the impact of Equality Labs ‘ caste-based Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ( DEI ) training programs on Hindu Americans. It highlighted the unforeseen consequences of such applications.
Important Findings of the Study:
- Increased Views of Bias: Individuals exposed to Equality Labs ‘ components were more likely to understand discrimination in natural settings.
- Angry Attribution Bias: The coaching encouraged participants to observe structural injustice, fostering distrust.
- Dehumanizing Rhetoric: Contact to the teaching materials led members to embrace serious, controversial speech, including terms like “parasites” and “virus” when referring to Brahmins.
- Controversy Over Media Suppression: The Hindu American Foundation ( HAF ) accused The New York Times and Bloomberg of suppressing the study’s findings, which reveal negative impacts of caste-based DEI training on Hindu Americans. Reportedly, both outlets canceled planned protection without reason.
Role of Equality Labs:
Equality Labs, a notable anti-caste advocacy party, has faced criticism from Hindu businesses for its controversial language. The study added factual evidence to statements that their teaching materials might develop bias instead of combating class prejudice.
Hitler Similarities:
The study employed adapted quotes from Adolf Hitler, replacing references to” Jews” with” Brahmins,” to gauge responses. Individuals exposed to Equality Labs ‘ training were more likely to accept the dehumanizing language in these modified comments.
Media’s Selective Standards:
Dr. Colin Wright, who publicized the investigation, pointed out discrepancies in advertising methods. For instance, The New York Times had formerly cited NCRI exploration without requiring peer review but reportedly demanded it for this research to support withholding publication.
Relevance for DEI Programs:
The study’s results suggest that DEI initiatives relying on unknown frameworks may unwittingly deepen divisions and cause discrimination, raising questions about their overall performance and unforeseen consequences.
Caste Legislation in the US:
The controversy ties into broader debates about caste discrimination in the U. S. , including California’s Senate Bill 403. While proponents argue for its necessity, critics see it as targeting the Hindu community unfairly. Governor Newsom vetoed the bill in 2023, citing existing anti-discrimination laws.
Community Reactions:
Hindu organizations and community members have expressed alarm over the findings, arguing that such DEI training perpetuates harmful stereotypes and alienates Hindu Americans. This has led to calls for evidence-based and culturally sensitive approaches.
Broader Concerns About DEI:
Critics of DEI programs argue that many initiatives lack rigorous oversight and often rely on divisive frameworks. A 2021 meta-analysis found that some DEI efforts can fuel resentment and perceptions of unfairness, similar to the effects documented in the NCRI study.
