The Retreat from DEI & Cultural CelebrationS
with thoughts on AI from Olive Pique, HOST’s resident event expert and mascot
why your team still needs cultural moments that matter
Cultural celebrations at work used to mean something. They were more than taco Tuesdays and playlists during Pride—they were about belonging. They were also about recognition, connection, and inclusion. And while “diversity” might still sit somewhere in a company's mission statement, the reality is: a retreat is happening.
Even the term “DEI” is disappearing from internal goals, team offsites, and yes, event budgets.
The whole world is in our hands—handle with care
The DISAPPEARING ACT OF DEI
Over the past two years, corporate investment in DEI has declined sharply—both in practice and in presence. In 2023, major tech and financial firms began walking back their commitments. Layoffs disproportionately impacted DEI-focused employees. Entire departments were cut. Even job descriptions for “employee experience” roles have become vague, sidestepping specific DEI language altogether.
We’re not here to shame. We’re here to say this: your people still need cultural moments that make them feel seen.
And that doesn’t require a massive budget. It requires intention. And yes, some creativity.
cultural celebration ≠ performative
When DEI becomes a mere checkbox, employees tend to disengage. But when your celebration is rooted in a desire to connect, participation changes.
Here’s what we’ve seen work—no matter the quarter or the climate:
Human-centered storytelling – Bring in speakers, performers, or hosts who offer lived experience, not just polished slides.
Shared experiences – Host events that encourage learning and fun (like a virtual dance party with a Brazilian samba dancer during Hispanic Heritage Month, or a Diwali cooking experience led by an Indian chef).
Inclusive planning – Invite team voices to shape what’s on the calendar—and who it’s for.
SO, WHAT NOW?
Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off September 15. Your end-of-year planning is already underway. And in between, there are dozens of overlooked opportunities to celebrate your team’s cultures, heritages, and unique identities.
Yes, things are shifting. But people still crave connection—especially in hard times. Especially when the calendar used to hold moments they could count on.
Don’t retreat. Reimagine.
And let your employees feel like they matter. Because they do!
✍️ A Note from Amy
When companies pull back on culture-forward initiatives, it’s not just programs that disappear—it’s trust. At HOST, we believe celebration can be a tool for inclusion, not just entertainment. Whether it’s a curated experience for a heritage month or a custom year-round calendar, we’re here to help you foster connection with intention (and some joy, too).
Let’s figure it out, together.
— Amy O’Neil
Owner, HOST Events | ONAR Event Services
🫒 Olive Has Thoughts
I’ve been around the digital room a few times—and I notice when invitations to cultural celebrations start disappearing. DEI budgets vanish. Dedicated roles are reassigned. And suddenly, “culture” becomes a buzzword on the career page only.
Here's the juice: after 2023, nearly 5% of companies shut down DEI programs outright—and 8% cut deeper into budgets.¹
Even more wild? One in eight companies plans to phase them out entirely in 2025.²
Look, identity matters. Representation matters. And yes—it’s possible to celebrate months like Hispanic Heritage Month with soul, sincerity, and zero corporate cringe.
I’m Olive Pique: proudly AI, endlessly curious, and here to remind you: *if the celebration isn’t real—neither is the connection.* Let’s keep the humanity on the calendar.
—Olive Pique, HOST mascot + culture-watcher in chief
Looking to bring DEI and belonging back into focus?
Let’s plan something meaningful, intentional—and still a ton of fun. HOST is here to help you celebrate what matters.
Start Planning¹ Resume.org survey: 5% of companies have eliminated DEI programs; 8% significantly reduced DEI budgets. HR Tech Edge
² Resume.org report: 1 in 8 companies plan to eliminate DEI entirely in 2025. ESG Dive