Tesla CEO Elon Musk publicly criticized “Shark Tank” star Mark Cuban over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workforce, calling DEI another word for racism.
Cuban countered Musk’s viewpoint, emphasizing the advantages of DEI programs, particularly in finding qualified employees.
Musk wrote, “DEI is just another word for racism. Shame on anyone who uses it.”
Cuban said, “Good businesses look where others don’t, to find the employees that will put your business in the best possible position to succeed.”
Mark Cuban debates Elon Musk on DEI, who’s right? @CharlyOnTV pic.twitter.com/yywqek0JT2
— OutKick (@Outkick) January 8, 2024
“By extending our hiring search to include them, we can find people that are more qualified. The loss of DEI-Phobic companies is my gain,” he continued.
“Cool, so when should we expect to see a short white/Asian women on the Mavs?” asked Musk.
“I do think that if merit for a given job is roughly the same, then the tiebreaker should be diversity (of all kinds),” he added.
The debate escalated when Musk questioned United Airlines’ DEI targets for pilots, leading to a tense exchange with Cuban.
“DEI does not mean you don’t hire on merit. Of course you hire based on merit,” said Cuban.
“The airline industry can’t find enough qualified pilots even without insane DEI requirements!” commented Musk.
“This is a training school. Once they graduate, it’s a multi year process to have an OPPORTUNITY to pilot for United,” explained Cuban.
“BTW, looks like multiple layers of merit based evaluations before they can fly for United,” he added.
“You are a liar,” replied Musk.
The exchange underscores the polarized opinions on DEI within the business community, with some questioning its efficacy and alignment with merit-based principles, while others argue for its importance in tapping into a diverse talent pool.
The ongoing debate highlights the complexities and challenges in finding an approach to DEI that aligns with ethical values and business objectives.
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