Harford County and the United States stand at a defining moment. The conversation around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been politicized, stripped of its core intent and turned into a battlefield. If some wish to discard the term, so be it. What truly matters is the principle — ensuring that diversity, equity and inclusivity remain the foundation of our society.

The math of America’s future

The numbers don’t lie. In 1950, America was 90% white. Today, nearly 40% of the population is Black and Brown. Within the next decade, minorities will be the majority. History proves that every global superpower thrives on economic strength, and the United States is no exception. If we fail to include all Americans in our economic future, we risk national decline.

We are living through America’s Third Reconstruction. The first followed the Civil War, promising economic empowerment to freed slaves — promises that were swiftly broken. The second, the Civil Rights Movement, brought progress but also fierce resistance. Today, in the wake of the Obama presidency and the racial reckoning after George Floyd’s murder, we see a familiar backlash.

But this time, we have the power to break the cycle. The most diverse companies and regions are the most innovative and profitable. America is, at its core, a capitalist democracy — where money talks. Our nation’s success depends on embracing diversity and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

AI and the future of inclusion

While we debate DEI, a far greater force is reshaping our world — artificial intelligence. AI is projected to displace 75 million jobs across industries. It won’t discriminate; it will simply replace those unprepared to adapt.

That is the real challenge. If we fail to equip our communities — Black, brown, white and everyone in between — for an AI-driven economy, the consequences will be devastating. That’s why I propose establishing an AI Council in Harford County and across Maryland to prepare young people for AI-driven careers. We must build a pipeline of AI-ready workers, ensuring no community is left behind in this technological revolution.

If some want to erase the term “DEI,” let them. Words are secondary to action. What truly matters is that we prepare all our children for the future.

The real storm isn’t DEI — it’s AI. If we fail to prepare, we fail our communities. The future belongs to those who seize it.

Andre Johnson Jr., a Democrat, is a Maryland state delegate representing District 34A in Harford County.