Conversations With Carole
"Conversations with Carole" is meant to build a community where we can talk about current and historical issues relevant to our times. I've been in the cross culture business for many years and celebrate the past work I've done in radio. It made sense NOW to move the conversation to a podcast format where we can all get involved!
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As an award-winning keynote speaker, trainer, and global thought leader, since 1987, Carole Copeland Thomas moderates the discussions of critical issues affecting the marketplace. She has her pulse on the issues affecting working professionals and regularly consults with industry leaders. She has spent 36 years cultivating relationships and partnerships with local, national, and international sponsors, including Walmart, Amtrak, and Emirates Airlines. Carole is the past president of The National Speakers Association -New England Chapter and was on the leadership team of Black NSA. Carole is a blogger and social media enthusiast using various technology platforms to enhance her business development activities.
Carole has been featured in the New York Times, Boston Globe, Black Enterprise, ABC Radio, and CBS News.
She is the author of eight books and is the Past National Vice Chair of the National Black MBA Association
Carole is a 28-year member of the National Speakers Association (NSA) and an active member of Black NSA. She won the President Emeritus Award for the leadership role she played during the 2017-2018 NSA New England Chapter Year.
Visit Carole's website at www.carolecopelandthomas.com.
Conversations With Carole
2/23/2025 EPISODE #47 Truth to Power: 16 Attorneys General Support DEI
DEI IS LEGAL IN THE USA!!
In this powerful episode of Conversations with Carole, host Carole Copeland Thomas breaks down the critical guidance issued by 16 Attorneys General in support of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). With the Biden administration out and Trump’s new policies aiming to dismantle DEI efforts nationwide, these state leaders are pushing back, reminding businesses that DEIA remains legal, essential, and beneficial.
Key Topics Covered:
- The February 13, 2025, announcement from 16 state Attorneys General reaffirming the legality and necessity of DEIA initiatives.
- Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s leadership in co-sponsoring this critical guidance.
- The growing legal challenges as Trump's executive orders attempt to curtail workplace diversity programs.
- Why businesses should stand firm—DEIA not only fosters equity but also strengthens the workforce, enhances company culture, and improves profitability.
- A breakdown of the 10 key takeaways from the guidance, including legal protections, economic benefits, and the ongoing fight against misinformation.
Why It Matters:
With over 70 executive orders from the Trump administration targeting DEI, the pressure on companies to abandon inclusive policies is growing. However, these 16 AGs emphasize that DEIA remains lawful and crucial for both legal compliance and workplace success. Their collective stance serves as a lifeline for businesses navigating these turbulent times.
Final Thoughts:
Carole passionately calls on individuals, businesses, and advocacy groups to push back—through civic engagement, corporate resilience, and community activism. The fight for DEIA isn’t just about policies; it’s about people, values, and the future of workplace equity in America.
Listen now to stay informed, stay empowered, and stand up for DEIA!
The 16 Attorneys General Include:
- Illinois – Kwame Raoul. Co-Sponsor
- Massachusetts – Andrea Joy Campbell Co-Sponsor
- Arizona – Kris Mayes
- California – Rob Bonta
- Connecticut – William Tong
- Delaware – Kathy Jennings
- Hawaii – Anne Lopez
- Maine – Aaron Frey
- Maryland – Anthony Brown
- Minnesota – Keith Ellison
- Nevada – Aaron Ford
- New Jersey – Matthew Platkin
- New York – Letitia James
- Rhode Island – Peter Neronha
- Oregon – Ellen Rosenblum
- Vermont – Charity Clark
Click Here To Read The Attorneys General Report: