Trump to sign executive orders proclaiming there are only two biological sexes, halting diversity programs
NBCJAN 22
Trump Orders Immediate Shutdown of Federal DEI Programs
Above: Pres. Donald Trump in the Oval Office on Jan. 20, 2025. Image copyright: Anna Moneymaker/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
The DEI programs represent illegal discrimination and wasteful spending that corrupts institutions by replacing merit-based systems with preferential treatment. These initiatives have infiltrated virtually all aspects of the federal government, creating divisive hierarchies instead of promoting genuine equality and hard work.
Democratic narrative
The dismantling of DEI programs threatens decades of progress in addressing systemic barriers and promoting equal access for historically marginalized communities. These initiatives were designed to ensure federal workforce representation reflects America's diversity and to eliminate structural barriers to full participation.