Equity in Action: Dr. Lacy Speaks Truth on Job Corps, DEI, and Power Shifts with Juandolyn Stokes
Dr. Alaysia Black Hackett, affectionately known as Dr. Lacy, brought powerful insight and experience to On Point with Juandolyn Stokes on Audacy Atlanta's News & Talk WAOK. As the former Chief Diversity and Equity Officer at the U.S. Department of Labor under the Biden Administration, Dr. Lacy offered a candid and thought-provoking conversation with Host, Juandolyn Stokes that addressed equity in America from the White House to the workforce — and into the hearts of everyday citizens.
During the show, Dr. Lacy responded directly to the controversial shutdowns of several Job Corps centers, expressing concern over the rising equity gaps affecting low-income youth, rural communities, and marginalized job seekers.
Dr. Lacy also pulled back the curtain on her time in federal leadership, sharing that DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) work must be embedded into the very structure of our institutions, not just presented as window dressing. "We need to be a lens with equity in the center," she said, quoting one of her core beliefs from her book, The Diversity Illusion.
In her discussion with host Juandolyn Stokes, the two examined how true DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) goes far beyond buzzwords and hiring quotas. It's about shifting systems, structures, and power dynamics in education, business, healthcare, and government.
Dr. Lacy addressed public backlash and political rhetoric surrounding DEI work, particularly critiques that misrepresent equity efforts as giving unearned advantages to some. It includes veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, rural populations, and many others who've been systemically underserved."
Juandolyn Stokes poised in depth questions that reached beyond the spectrum and gave true insight. They also explored Donald Trump's campaign policy promises, particularly around immigration and healthcare, and the potential impacts of another term on national equity efforts.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Lacy emphasized that while the current administration made significant strides, it has not effectively countered the false narratives that paint DEI as divisive.
Additional highlights included:
• Encouragement around entrepreneurship and skill-building as alternatives to traditional career paths
• Insight into how organizations can move beyond performative allyship to true systemic equity
Dr. Lacy also dropped memorable wisdom throughout the interview, including:
"Don't allow God to open up a door you are not ready to walk in."
"We need to be a lens with equity in the center."
"Be your own equity ambassador."
Listeners were left not only with information — but with inspiration.
For more, read Dr. Lacy's book, The Diversity Illusion, and continue the conversation every weekday on On Point with Juandolyn Stokes, only on WAOK AM and the Audacy app.
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