The issue is not simply diversity and hiring based on race or gender. It is a little more detailed and it has to be pointed out, that there is a limited amount of qualified DEI candidates. There are more jobs than candidates, this is a fact. Where DEI is concerned there is a need for a concerted effort to hire the diverse candidate when things are remotely close to equal. On the darkside of the issue, due to the cancel culture and political landscape, it has become necessary to hire women and preferably women of color. A program is better off hiring a lesser qualified candidate or face the very real reality of losing jobs, and being labeled racist and/or sexist. This is a sad reality we currently live in.
The benefit of it all is future experienced pools of candidates. The rest is just an exercise is human nature. No one likes being discriminated against. Simple truths, and harsh realities. It is what it is, and yes all things can be true at the same time.