Some words carry baggage. Although commonly used and well-intentioned, specific terms can have a historical context with negative connotations for different communities. Engineers are often encouraged to work with stakeholders to design and implement solutions. In this context, the intended meaning of stakeholder is usually 鈥�.鈥� However, this term is also rooted in colonial practices. According to, 鈥淲hen land acquisition was happening, this term referred to the allotment of land to settlers. Settlers were given wooden stakes to claim their plot of land prior to any treaty or land negotiations with Indigenous Peoples.鈥� This term, along with, are discouraged by some indigenous groups. As alternatives, the terms 鈥減artners,鈥� or in contexts where groups have constitutionally protected rights, 鈥渞ights holders,鈥� may be more appropriate.
If you鈥檇 like to suggest a topic or contribute a summary and links on a topic for a future DEI minute, please. To share other questions and comments, please email us at ceae-jedi@colorado.edu.