In a move that has stirred significant controversy, the Trump administration instructed thousands of federal workers on Wednesday to report any efforts within their agencies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs or face "adverse consequences." This directive follows Trump's earlier executive orders that eliminated DEI initiatives throughout the federal government.
Emails obtained by the BBC revealed a requirement for employees to submit comprehensive reports to a designated email address within ten days. Many employees voiced their concerns, interpreting the communication as a potential betrayal of their colleagues. A Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) employee expressed feelings of anxiety and apprehension, stating, "We're really freaked out and overwhelmed."
Agency heads were obligated to notify staff about the new directive by 5 PM Eastern Time on the same day, with some variations in the emails sent. For instance, employees at the Treasury Department received a version that did not mention the potential consequences for failing to report DEI activities.
The Trump administration's aggressive approach to dismantling DEI programs reflects a broader campaign against what they describe as reverse discrimination, with Trump publicly denouncing DEI practices during his presidency. At a recent World Economic Conference, Trump proclaimed his initiative to transform America into a "merit-based country," a statement enthusiastically supported by critics of DEI programs.
While some external commentators have praised Trump's actions as a pivotal moment for civil rights, internal federal employees view the email and subsequent orders as intimidation rather than a push for fairness. Many expressed worries about the chaotic atmosphere within their agencies, fearing job security and the future of inclusive hiring practices.
An HHS employee noted the confusion following the DEI orders, raising concerns about how these policies could influence critical funding decisions for scientific research that often aim to expand opportunities for minority scientists. Echoing this sentiment, an employee at the Food and Drug Administration revealed that DEI activities have come to a halt, with lingering anxiety among staff regarding the broader implications for their work.
As the Trump administration pursues a series of sweeping executive actions aimed at restructuring the federal workforce, the impact of this latest directive on both DEI initiatives and employee morale remains to be fully seen, leaving many federal workers uncertain about their roles in fostering diversity and inclusion.
