Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Making It More Than Just "DEI"

I saw a post online some time ago that said (paraphrased): "Communication can be so strange. You can say: 'I like waffles,' and someone will respond, 'Why do you hate pancakes?'" I have been reminded of this post several times as I encounter people who seem to be speaking at cross-purposes in various discussions about the current diversity, equity, & inclusion backlash. For example, when some people say that diversity, equity, and inclusion practices could stand to be improved, others will respond that they should not have to apologize for continuing to support the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion. It's interesting to me because the two speakers are often on the same side. However, sometimes I think both sides of the argument, for and against diversity, equity, and inclusion, suffer from the acronym having overtaken the actual principles.