In a sweeping decision that’s stirring up conversations nationwide, former President Donald Trump has called for an immediate pause on all federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) operations. Starting Wednesday, all DEI staff across federal agencies are to be placed on paid leave.
Here’s what’s happening:
According to a memo from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), federal agencies have until 5 p.m. Wednesday to take their DEI-related web pages offline and put staff on leave. But that’s not all—agencies are also tasked with compiling lists of DEI offices and employees to prepare for potential staffing cuts.
The memo doesn’t mince words, warning agencies not to disguise DEI initiatives with “coded or imprecise language.” To ensure compliance, a template message was provided for notifying staff of these changes.
The message states:
“We are taking steps to close all agency DEIA offices and end all DEIA-related contracts in accordance with President Trump’s executive orders titled Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing and Initial Rescissions of Harmful Executive Orders and Actions. These programs divided Americans by race, wasted taxpayer dollars, and resulted in shameful discrimination.”
The memo also urges staff to report any attempts to hide or rename DEI programs, cautioning that failure to do so within 10 days could lead to “adverse consequences.”
A Campaign Promise Delivered
This move follows Trump’s campaign promise to dismantle DEI initiatives within government operations. The two executive orders referenced in the memo were signed on his first day back in office, signaling a strong start to fulfilling his agenda.
While supporters argue that this decision cuts unnecessary spending and promotes unity, critics fear it could set back efforts to address systemic inequities.
Want more details on this story? Click here to read further updates from The Washington Examiner.
What do you think about this development? Join the conversation and share your thoughts below!
