Should You Change How You Talk About Equity and Inclusion?

The policy landscape for nonprofits has shifted dramatically in 2025, with new executive orders restricting DEI language in grants and contracts. Many health organizations are asking: should we change how we communicate or stand firm in our current messaging?

In this solo episode, Spencer explores four common responses he’s seen from nonprofits navigating these changes—compliance first, quiet continuers, resistors, and strategic shifters— and unpacks the deeper leadership questions beneath each choice.

He also shares guiding principles to help leaders chart their path forward, including integrity to mission, accountability to community, awareness of organizational risk tolerance, and consistency between words and actions. At its core, this moment is a test of mission integrity and how nonprofits will be remembered in the years ahead.

Contact Spencer

• Email: [email protected]