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3mo ago

PBS Shuts Down DEI Office Following Trump Executive Order

The public broadcaster complies with new federal directives targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, resulting in layoffs of key DEI staff.

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Overview

  • PBS closed its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) office to comply with President Donald Trump's executive order eliminating DEI programs across federally funded organizations.
  • The closure led to the departures of Cecilia Loving, Senior Vice President of DEI, and Gina Leow, Director of DEI, who had been hired in 2021 to lead PBS's diversity initiatives.
  • Trump's executive orders, signed upon his return to office, mandate the removal of DEI-focused positions and funding in government agencies and federally supported entities.
  • PBS's decision follows legal consultations and comes as the Federal Communications Commission, led by a Trump appointee, investigates PBS and NPR over funding and programming practices.
  • The broadcaster emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and its mission to serve diverse American communities despite the elimination of the DEI office.