The Trump administration has issued a mandate requiring all federal employees working in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) roles to be placed on paid leave by Wednesday evening. The directive, outlined in a new memo from the Office of Personnel Management, sets in motion the closure of DEI-related offices and programs across federal agencies.
Immediate Actions Required by Federal Agencies
The memo, sent to department and agency heads on Tuesday, instructs them to notify affected employees by 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday about their transition to paid administrative leave. Federal agencies have been ordered to:
- Shut down DEI-related offices, programs, websites, and social media accounts.
- Submit a written plan by January 31 for terminating these positions.
This policy shift follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Monday to eliminate what he termed “radical and wasteful” DEI programs within the federal government.
White House Response
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the move fulfills President Trump’s campaign promise to end the spread of DEI within federal agencies. “The goal is to create a merit-based society where hiring decisions are based on skills, not race,” Leavitt stated, calling the decision “another win for Americans of all races, religions, and creeds. Promises made, promises kept.”
Criticism from Union Representatives
The American Federation of Government Employees, a union representing federal workers, criticized the executive order, calling it a pretext for firing civil servants and undermining the nonpartisan nature of the federal workforce. Union national president Everett Kelley defended DEI programs, stating that they foster a workforce reflective of the nation’s diversity and help narrow gender and racial pay gaps.
“Federal hiring is already based on merit,” Kelley argued, adding that DEI initiatives have been instrumental in creating a fair and equitable workplace.
Broader Implications
In addition to this action, President Trump signed a separate order on Tuesday challenging diversity-focused hiring practices at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The administration claims these policies disadvantage qualified individuals who do not meet specific racial or disability criteria.
Uncertain Impact
It remains unclear how many federal employees will be affected by this sweeping directive. As federal agencies comply with the administration’s orders, the implications for workplace equity and diversity within government institutions will continue to unfold.
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