The Trump administration intensified its campaign against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, urging government employees to report hidden diversity programs. In a Wednesday memo, employees were warned of “adverse consequences” for failing to disclose such programs within 10 days, claiming some may be disguised with vague language.
This follows Trump’s Tuesday directive to suspend DEI program administrators on paid leave and his Monday executive orders dismantling DEI efforts, reversing policies established under Democrat Joe Biden. DEI initiatives aim to promote opportunities for women, minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other underrepresented groups. Trump and his allies argue these programs undermine merit and create reverse discrimination.
The crackdown drew criticism from civil rights advocates. Psyche Williams-Forson of the University of Maryland attributed Trump’s actions to resurfacing racial resentments, while U.S. Representative Hank Johnson accused him of erasing decades of progress. Noreen Farrell of Equal Rights Advocates warned Trump’s orders threaten both civil rights and economic growth.
Trump has also pressured private companies with federal contracts, valued at $739 billion in 2023, to eliminate DEI practices, potentially targeting minority-led businesses. His orders rescind a landmark 1965 directive by President Lyndon B. Johnson that prohibited discrimination in federal contracting and promoted equal opportunities, a key civil rights movement achievement.
Civil rights groups, including Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network, plan boycotts against companies abandoning DEI commitments. Critics argue Trump’s policies are reversing decades of progress toward equality. The White House declined to comment.
Also read: Trump Targets DEI Programs, Orders Diversity Rollback Across Sectors
