A heated debate on GB News between anti-racism activist Iman Aaan and commentator Aman Bal sparked strong opinions about diversity training in workplaces. The discussion focused on whether these programs help to reduce racism or cause more harm by creating division.
Aman Bal argued that diversity training is unnecessary and often harmful. “We didn’t need diversity training before, and companies worked just fine. These programs assume the whole country is racist, and that’s simply not true,” he said.
Bal used examples of successful leaders to back his point. “Look at Google, Microsoft, and Adobe—they’re led by Indian CEOs. This shows that people succeed based on merit, not because of diversity programs,” he explained.
He also criticized diversity training as being more about appearances than real change. “It’s a billion-pound industry. Companies use it to tick boxes and protect themselves from legal issues rather than solving real problems,” he added.
Iman Aaan strongly disagreed, saying that diversity training helps people become more aware of racism and how to address it. “We’re seeing racism because we’re now conscious of it. Awareness is the first step toward fixing it,” she said.
She accused critics of focusing on race when it comes to diversity training while ignoring other forms of discrimination. “Would you dismiss training for sexism, ableism, or religious discrimination? No! But when it’s about race, suddenly it’s a problem,” she exclaimed.
Aaan highlighted the importance of the Equalities Act, which protects nine characteristics, including race. “This law exists to protect everyone, whether it’s about gender, disability, or race. Why single out race and dismiss training for it?” she asked.
The debate grew even more intense as Bal responded, “You don’t need to train society to be less racist. Discrimination is already illegal. The law should be enough.” Aaan fired back, saying, “You only care when it’s about race. Why ignore the struggles black and brown people face under the same law that protects others?”
Aaan also explained how people’s focus shapes their views. “Our brains work in a way that makes us see what we prioritize. If you focus on racism, you notice it more—but that doesn’t mean it’s not real. It means we’re finally paying attention,” she explained.
Bal stood firm, claiming these programs do more harm than good. “They create division by making people believe racism is everywhere, even when it’s not. Companies use it as a shield to protect themselves, not to help employees,” he said.
This debate raises a critical question: does diversity training help bring people together, or does it create unnecessary division? While Aaan argued for its importance in raising awareness and addressing racism, Bal maintained that it assumes problems where they don’t exist and divides workplaces.
As more organizations adopt diversity training, this conversation reflects a wider issue in society—how to effectively address discrimination without creating new problems. The debate remains open, leaving people to wonder: is diversity training a step forward or a step back?
