Department of Defense Disbands DEI Programs After Executive Order
The Department of Defense (DoD) has joined other federal agencies in abolishing its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in response to a recent executive order from President Donald Trump. This directive has set off a wave of changes across the government, with a clear mandate from the highest levels of leadership to eliminate DEI initiatives.
Trump’s Directive Clear: No More DEI
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made it unequivocally clear in a social media post: “The President’s guidance is clear: No more DEI at the Department of Defense.” This message was further reinforced by a handwritten note from Hegseth, stating that “the Pentagon will comply, immediately. No exceptions, name-changes, or delays.” He also warned that non-compliance would result in termination from their positions.
Political Support for DEI Elimination
Senator John Kennedy, a Republican from Louisiana, voiced his support for Hegseth’s position. In a post on X, he stated, “The best way to stop discriminating against people on the basis of race or gender is to stop discriminating against people on the basis of race or gender. Let DEI die.”
Hegseth’s Appointment Amid Controversy
Hegseth, who was sworn in as Secretary of Defense after a politically charged confirmation process, expressed gratitude for his new role, declaring, “All praise and glory to God. His will be done and we’re grateful to be here,” while flanked by his family. A veteran of the Minnesota National Guard with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, Hegseth is also a former Fox News host.
Financial Implications of DEI Termination
The newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under the leadership of Elon Musk, reported that about 0 million in contracts centered on DEI initiatives are being canceled. This significant financial shift points to a broader strategy aimed at reallocating resources away from DEI programs.
Legal Framework of the Executive Order
On Inauguration Day, President Trump signed an executive order mandating the closure of all DEI offices, resulting in the immediate placement of all related employees on paid leave. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent a memo detailing the steps agencies must take by specific deadlines to comply with these new directives.
Operational Directives for Agencies
Acting OPM Director Charles Ezell issued instructions requiring agency heads to inform employees of DEI office closures by January 22, take down DEI-related digital content, and cancel associated contracts and training programs. Additionally, employees were encouraged to report any attempts to obscure DEI-related activities.
Policy on Gender Recognition
Furthermore, the executive orders set the official U.S. government policy to recognize only two genders: male and female. This move aligns with the broader intention of the current administration to reshape the federal approach to issues of diversity and inclusion.
Voter Support for DEI End
Recent polling indicates substantial backing for the termination of DEI programs among voters, with 30% affirming that ending DEI initiatives is extremely important. This public sentiment appears to resonate with the current political emphasis on reducing governmental focus on issues of diversity and equity.
Broader Implications of Executive Actions
Trump’s administration has launched several executive actions targeting DEI practices, which include an order to eliminate discrimination in workplaces and educational institutions through strict adherence to civil rights protections based on race and sex. The President asserted that these traditional civil rights protections are necessary to secure equal opportunities for all Americans.
Long-Standing Concerns Over DEI Policies
In his executive order, Trump expressed concerns about the adoption of what he termed “dangerous, demeaning, and immoral race- and sex-based preferences” in various sectors of American society due to DEI initiatives, emphasizing a commitment to returning to a merit-based evaluation for opportunities in government, education, and the workforce.
Conclusion: A Shift in Federal Policy
In conclusion, the disbanding of DEI programs within the Department of Defense serves as a significant signal of the Trump administration’s commitment to reshaping federal policies in line with its distinctly conservative priorities. As federal agencies swiftly adapt to these new mandates, the debate over the implications of such changes continues to unfold across the political landscape. The aftermath of these actions may have far-reaching impacts on how diversity, equity, and inclusion are perceived and implemented in government functions moving forward.
Contributed by Fox News’ Brooke Singman, Brie Stimson, Michael Dorgan, and Landon Mion.
