President Donald Trump's second term began with a series of significant actions aimed at dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices within the federal government. Trump rescinded multiple Executive Orders signed by President Biden that promoted racial preferences and DEI initiatives.
On his first day in office, Trump rescinded an EO signed by Biden, which focused on advancing racial equity and supporting underserved communities. This move set the stage for a broader effort to eliminate DEI practices across federal agencies, contractors, and grant recipients.
Subsequently, Trump signed two additional EOs targeting DEI programs. The second EO outlined specific steps for departments to terminate all DEI-related offices, positions, and initiatives. The third EO repealed long-standing policies, including one signed by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965 that required federal contractors to implement racial quotas.
As part of these actions, federal agencies were instructed to place DEI offices on paid administrative leave and cease all DEI activities immediately. While some agencies may attempt to rebrand DEI efforts, the administration's commitment to ending racial preferences remains steadfast.
Trump's decision to prioritize ending DEI practices was a key campaign promise and reflects the desires of a significant portion of the electorate. Recent polling data indicated that a substantial number of voters prioritize ending DEI alongside other critical issues such as inflation, national defense, and immigration.
The administration's swift and comprehensive actions to eliminate DEI initiatives signal a significant shift in federal policy and set the stage for a continued debate on the role of racial preferences in government programs and contracting.
