The Biden administration recently announced the appointment of Zakiya Carr Johnson as the new chief diversity and inclusion officer at the State Department. Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised Carr Johnson for her expertise and fresh perspective on building a workforce that reflects America.
Prior to this role, Carr Johnson served as a senior adviser in the Obama administration and directed the Race, Ethnicity, and Social Inclusion Unit at the State Department. She is also the owner of Odara Solutions, a DEI consulting firm, and Black Women Disrupt, an initiative focused on amplifying the voices of Black women in creative spaces.
In her past statements, Carr Johnson has been vocal about challenging traditional structures and dismantling systems rooted in patriarchy, colonialism, and racism. She has advocated for feminist leadership that counters White-centered feminism trends and narratives.
Carr Johnson's work emphasizes the importance of intersectionality and addressing structural inequalities to achieve lasting change. She has co-authored guides promoting feminist leadership for feminist goals and has been a proponent of critical race theory.
While some of Carr Johnson's views have sparked controversy, particularly regarding her stance on dismantling traditional power structures and promoting anti-racist feminist leadership, she remains committed to driving cultural shifts and fostering inclusivity.
Her appointment signals the Biden administration's dedication to promoting diversity and equity within the State Department, with a focus on challenging existing power dynamics and advancing intersectional approaches to leadership.
