Overview

• President Trump has issued executive orders limiting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in federal agencies and contractors, while encouraging the private sector to do the same.
• Dozens of federal employees, including those who attended diversity training during Trump’s first term, have been placed on paid leave, raising concerns of intimidation and job security among government workers.
• Experts confirm that anti-discrimination laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, remain in effect, though enforcement priorities are expected to shift under new leadership at agencies like the EEOC.
• Private companies are divided, with some dismantling DEI programs to align with the administration’s stance, while others rebrand their efforts to avoid legal and public backlash.
• Union representatives and civil rights lawyers argue that the administration's actions could undermine workplace protections and foster confusion and fear among federal employees.