(ISC)² Organizational Statement in Opposition of Anti-DEI Legislation  

As the world’s foremost cybersecurity professional organization, (ISC)² is leading the charge to ensure our profession reflects the diversity of the world we serve. Diversity, equity and inclusion are strategic priorities for the individuals and organizations (ISC)² represents, and we believe that inspiring a safe and secure cyber world means ensuring a diverse, equitable and inclusive cybersecurity profession.   

Today, our profession does not reflect the world we live in, and at the same time, the current Cybersecurity Workforce Gap as tracked by the (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study reports unfilled demand for more than 2.7 million professionals. Building a more diverse and inclusive profession is key to addressing the workforce shortage.  

As an association that is actively driving change to ensure a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce and workplaces, we are troubled by any legislative measures that not only limit, but in some instances, outlaw, discussions about and considerations of diversity in schools and the workplace. These laws stand in direct opposition to our core values, and they could hinder the ability of organizations to directly address diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, which is vital for success in a globally interconnected world.  

Only through frank and honest discussion can we break down barriers, establish common ground and affirm, for all, that DEI is about inclusion for everyone, not exclusion for anyone. We stand with other professional organizations like the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE)  in opposing such laws as they undermine the development of a diverse and inclusive cybersecurity workforce.  

(ISC)² represents almost 170,000 certified members in 175 countries worldwide. Our DEI Strategic Plan outlines the steps our organization is taking to ensure diverse, equitable and inclusive practices, and our DEI Resource Center provides dozens of guides that serves as a roadmap for other organizations and individuals seeking to establish similar programs. We will continue this important work and speak out against actions that curtail the progress we are making to inspire a safe and secure cyber world.  

We support all our members globally, including members who may be directly affected by laws of limitation, and we will work to preserve their rights and expand our DEI practices.