A Controversial Move to Dismantle DEI Programs in the Federal Government

Trump's Executive Order on Diversity and Inclusion

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday, September 22, 2020, titled "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity." This order aimed to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs within the federal government.

Executive Order 11246 (1965): This order, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, directed the government to use affirmative action and non-discriminatory practices in hiring and employing federal workers and contractors.

This order, signed by President Bill Clinton, directed federal agencies to focus on environmental and human health effects on minority and low-income communities.

This order, signed by President Barack Obama, directed federal agencies to develop and update diversity and inclusion plans every four years.

This memorandum, also issued by President Obama, provided guidance to the national security workforce on strengthening diversity within each organization.

Trump argued that these DEI programs were "dangerous, demeaning, and immoral" and unfairly disadvantaged people in majority groups. However, critics argued that these programs were necessary to ensure equal opportunity for all and to address historical discrimination.

It is important to note that Trump's executive order did not revoke the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972, which prohibits workplace discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, and marital or family status. This is because the Equal Employment Opportunity Act is a law passed by Congress, and executive orders cannot revoke laws.

The impact of Trump's executive order on diversity and inclusion in the federal government remains to be seen. However, it is likely to lead to a decrease in the number of DEI programs and initiatives within the government.