Dismantling of the DEI agenda

DEI stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Donald Trump has dismantled and disrupted diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the US. At its core, DEI aims to ensure diverse and inclusive workplaces where everyone, regardless of race, gender, or background, has equal opportunities. Trump advocates for a return to “merit-based hiring”.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to dismantle federal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programmes on his first day back in office. Donald Trump signed two executive orders aimed at unwinding the federal government’s decades-long push to ensure an inclusive workplace that reflects American society.

The directives also instruct federal agencies to develop plans to deter diversity, equity and inclusion measures – often referred to as DEI – in the private sector, a move viewed by some as an attempt to ward off companies from addressing discrimination in their workplaces.

While Trump orders have been appreciated by some supporters and allies, advocacy groups and civil rights activists have blamed him for undermining and undoing the years of work to protect the rights of marginalized people.

Without giving any solid evidence, Trump has blamed diversity efforts for the handling of recent deadly California wildfires and a Washington air crash.

DEI broken down

In simple words, DEI is a generic label given to the wide-ranging measures that aim to ensure people of all backgrounds – including from historically marginalised groups – can gain a foothold and thrive at organisations. The roots of DEI term trace back to the US in the 1960s, according to The Guardian. The label was used to describe programmes that tackled discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, religion and disability.

Diversity: Emphasises the inclusion of individuals from various backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

Equity: Focuses on ensuring fair treatment, access, and opportunities for all, particularly for underserved communities.

Inclusion: Aims to create environments where everyone feels valued and can contribute fully.

President Lyndon B. Johnson issued Executive Order 11246 the next year, which barred discrimination in federal employment and required the government to “take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, creed, color, or national origin.”