The emergence and backlash of socially conscious language surged in the United States following the murder of George Floyd in the summer of 2020. Terms such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) have been repurposed and have ignited controversy among legislators and right-wing pundits. More recently, following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Affirmative Action, state legislators have independently determined how to implement this decision. In numerous states, this has led to efforts to pass legislation either prohibiting "DEI" initiatives at public institutions or barring investments in ESG funds. As of April 24, nine states have successfully enacted bills targeting DEI funding or practices. This trend of anti-DEI legislation persists despite mounting evidence of its negative economic impacts.