Oregon Department of Forestry Official on Leave Following DEI Complaint

Mike Shaw, the second highest-ranking official at the Department of Forestry in Oregon, has been put on administrative leave. This decision came after a complaint from the department's former Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategy officer, Megan Donecker. According to Oregon Live, Donecker accused Shaw of prioritizing qualifications over gender and identity during the hiring process.

Megan Donecker's Concerns

Megan Donecker, who is known for her passion for Dungeons and Dragons, expressed concerns about the safety of queer staff members. She claimed that they were unable to engage in discussions about pronouns in the workplace. Donecker's concerns were initially sparked when Shaw advocated for a more cautious approach to DEI. She likened the rapid adoption of woke culture to driving too fast on an icy road. According to Donecker, Shaw warned against moving too quickly, using the metaphor of a car crash to illustrate his point.

Additional Allegations

Donecker also alleged that six homosexual staff members did not feel safe or comfortable in the workplace. She claimed this was due to the lack of opportunity to discuss pronouns. Furthermore, she described the department as a "boys club," according to reports from the Daily Mail. Donecker, who is known for her distinctive purple hair, has since left the department. She now works as a DEI consultant and describes herself as an "accomplice to marginalized communities."

Department's Response

The Oregon Department of Forestry did not directly respond to the allegations. However, they stated that they take employee complaints and concerns seriously. They ensure that these issues are dealt with in accordance with state laws, rules, policies, and HR best practices, including protection from retaliation. State Forester Cal Mukumoto emphasized the department's commitment to maintaining a safe, diverse, and inclusive workplace. He stated that this is a shared core value and priority of both the department and the Board of Forestry.

Bottom Line

This incident highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between qualifications and diversity in the hiring process. While some argue that the most qualified candidates should always be prioritized, others believe that diversity and inclusion should also be key considerations. What are your thoughts on this matter? Please share this article with your friends and join the discussion. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing which is delivered every day at 6pm.