Sometimes the fantasy arguments I have in my head spill out into social media. I’m still following a ton of MAGA accounts and right-wing politicians as a result of my work to counter disinformation in the 2020 election. So I have ample opportunity to disrupt the opposition’s talking points and stir the pot.
Such was the case when my new Governor, Mike Braun, posted on Facebook about his plans for, among other things, dismantling Indiana’s DEI efforts. A few days earlier, I had read about Braun’s policy to remove hiring restrictions that required a college degree for positions where a degree wasn’t legally mandated. Not a bad idea, really, when it comes to finding talented employees that have the skills for a job, but for whatever reason, don’t have the necessary credentials. Ironically, that’s fundamental DEI: removing barriers to productive employment and advancement. I filed that away for later use, and darn if “Tim” didn’t give me my shot.
Tim immediately cites facts showing that DEI “bring[s] out the worst.” Which is to say, he just claims that it’s “proven.”
I helpfully point out that, well actually, Braun’s stated employment principles include DEI.
Tim expresses confusion…
I proceed to use the words “Diversity,” “Equity,” and “Inclusion in my explanation so that the policy’s connection to DEI is clear.
I also frame an example in terms I think he will understand.
Tim is unmoved.
And for the first time, questions my intelligence.
Unlike Tim, I save my receipts.
For some context, Governor Braun signed a number of Executive Orders that day, including one banning DEI in favor of “MEI”: Merit, Excellence, and Innovation. ::eye roll::
In a statement of stunning cluelessness, Braun told the press his inclusion of non-college-educated candidates for state jobs would “attract a broader pool of talent” and “engage more Hoosiers in the process.”
I continued with a hypothetical that I thought would illustrate the point.
Now, what you don’t see after this response is a reply that Tim deleted before I took my screenshots. It was short and not very sweet: “That’s not DEI,” and “Are you really this stupid?”
Admittedly somewhat triggered, I answered.
(I tried to avoid ad hominem attack. I think I was successful enough.)
Tim remained unconvinced.
But at least he signaled a desire for knowledge.
Which, being me, I indulged.
Finally, this is where I tapped my inner Child of MAGA Adults, allowing didacticism (and not a little righteous indignation) to flow.
Tim didn’t respond after this. I’m not sure if he grew bored, or decided that I was nuts, but I like to imagine he realized there was more to DEI than he had previously thought.
I don’t necessarily advocate sparring on social media, but if you’re tired of suppositions hanging out there unchecked, and you don’t mind a few aspersions cast on your intellect, it can be a good way to sharpen your values and arguments.
(indistinct chatter) 
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