Boom to Backlash

“A compelling narrative that uncovers the undercurrents of social movements and public opinion, Boom to Backlash offers a unique lens through which to understand the inevitable tensions that accompany moments of rapid societal change.”
—Stephanie Creary, Assistant Professor of Management at the Wharton School of University of Pennsylvania

“Boom to Backlash is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand how DEI adds value to the corporate bottom line and is essential to creating ‘safe space’ for all employees in a post-George Floyd world.”
—Ray Arata, Founder of Better Man Conference and Author of Showing Up: How Men Can Become Effective Allies in the Workplace

“My friend and colleague DK Bartley has poured his decades of experience at the forefront of corporate DEI into this timely and essential book. Boom to Backlash is not just a roadmap for navigating the cycles of progress and resistance we’ve seen over the past five years—it’s a deeply personal and insightful call to action. DK’s unparalleled vantage point and tireless commitment to this work shine through on every page, offering the perspective and tools we need to sustain the momentum for a more inclusive and equitable future. I can’t recommend it enough.”
—Jennifer Brown, keynote speaker and bestselling author of How to be an Inclusive Leader, host of “The Will to Change” podcast

“In a world grappling with the legacy of George Floyd, DK's book provides a critical examination of the promises made and the challenges ahead. A timely and powerful contribution to the ongoing DEI conversation. Bartley doesn't just analyze the DEI boom and backlash—he equips us to build a more equitable future. This book is a call to action for leaders at every level.”
—Carolynn Franklin, former CEO and Executive Editor at Fair360, formerly DiversityInc

“There are very few sources for real, accurate, and credible understanding of how DEI has enhanced the larger global community. DK Bartley’s Boom to Backlash brings home the forces before and undeniably the forces after the murder of George Floyd. He does an excellent job of setting the stage and providing ways for all of us to continue advancing inclusion in our collective future together and not as enemies.”
—Michael Hyter, President and CEO, The Executive Leadership Council

“Boom to Backlash is a must-read if you would like to understand DEI or the many interpretations and rebranding of the acronym. At its very core, this book is a game changer for the world we currently live in. It holds corporate America accountable, both during the boom and now in the backlash. I highly recommend reading DK Bartley’s sequence of events, post George Floyd. You will be inspired!”
—Geri Thomas, former chief diversity officer, Bank Of America

“This book is a timely reminder of the need for the best people to be given access to opportunities which is what DEI is all about. Business leaders for decades have spoken on the power of wisdom of the crowds as a way to develop better business results, and DEI is a critical ingredient to ensuring wisdom of the crowds gives you the best outcomes. The net result is improved financial performance, improved happiness for employees and a better society.”
—Damian Rivera, CEO The Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA)