
The State Department, following an executive order from President Donald Trump, dismantles diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, signaling a shift in federal policy.
Key Insights
- President Trump ended DEI programs in the federal government via an executive order on January 20, 2025.
- Federal agencies are tasked with reassigning DEI staff and resources and submitting layoff plans by January 31, 2025.
- Critics argue the order aims to replace career civil servants with political loyalists.
- Trump signed other executive orders gutting protections for transgender people and ending DEI in federal contracting.
Executive Order Implementation by the State Department
The State Department swiftly implements President Trump’s executive order to dismantle DEI programs. The order, signed on January 20, 2025, effectively terminates DEI-related activities, reallocating staff duties. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizes a return to diplomacy focused on national security and economic strength.
Rubio addressed the changes, asserting the need to eliminate identity-based policies and focus on merit-based systems. Criticism from civil rights groups and DEI advocates describe this move as a politically motivated replacement of career professionals with political appointees.
Criticism and Legislative Fallout
Civil rights organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, are preparing to challenge these orders in court. Critics like Max Stier argue that punishing civil servants for their work under past administrations is unjust, causing distress to impacted employees and colleagues.
“We are not going anywhere, and we will fight back against these harmful provisions with everything we’ve got.” – Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson
President Trump’s executive order includes controversial provisions, such as recognizing only two sexes for federal purposes and segregating federal shelters and prisons accordingly. These actions, Trump contends, protect free speech and uphold American values.
Focus on Merit and Equal Opportunity
Notably, the order rescinds previous mandates requiring federal contractors to engage in affirmative action, shifting toward equal opportunity regardless of race or other DEI considerations. Trump asserts this approach aligns with ensuring fairness and merit-based advancement.
“The order emphasizes values of individual dignity, hard work, and excellence, countering what it describes as the Biden-Harris Administration’s ‘equity’ mandates.” – President Donald J. Trump
Rubio insists that these measures will be implemented swiftly and without reservation, ensuring America stands strong and united in the face of both domestic and international challenges.
Sources:
- Trump to roll back protections for transgender people and end government DEI programs | AP News
- Rubio Moves Swiftly to Implement Trump’s DEI Directive at State Department
- Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Protects Civil Rights and Merit-Based Opportunity by Ending Illegal DEI – The White House