DEI and Imago Dei

Abstract

Diversity, equity, and inclusion policies drive education. The stakes are high and teachers of certain faith traditions are often seen as an enemy of modern definitions of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Christian teachers, especially, often must bear the burden of having to choose between their sincerely held religious convictions and a secular process sometimes antithetical to a Christian belief system. Christians view humanity as the Imago Dei, the image of God. DEI began as a noble pursuit, but in truth, it uses a philosophic framework that creates an “us vs them” approach. Imago Dei seeks reconciliation and equal value and dignity for all people because of their place in creation. DEI and Imago Dei are not the same, but they can coexist if dialogue precedes dictates and teachers of faith are granted freedom to practice treating all students as image bearers of God.