Trump Takes Bold Action: DEI Staff on Paid Leave as Environmental Justice Offices Face Cuts

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has ordered that all federal employees in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) positions be placed on paid administrative leave by the end of business on Wednesday. This directive follows a series of executive actions taken by President Donald Trump early in his second term that aim to dismantle DEI programs and end affirmative action in federal contracts.

In a memo issued Tuesday, acting OPM director Charles Ezell mandated federal agency leaders to inform DEI office employees about the transition to administrative leave by 5 p.m. Eastern. Agencies must also cease any DEI-related training, terminate DEI contractors, and remove all public communications associated with DEI offices by Wednesday evening.

By Thursday noon Eastern, agency heads are required to report compliance plans to OPM, detailing how they will adhere to the executive orders and the directive from Ezell. They must also outline any layoffs related to DEI office staff by January 31.

This initiative is part of a broader Republican movement to eliminate programs designed to promote equitable workplaces. Trump’s administration has characterized existing DEI efforts as “radical and wasteful,” asserting that they squander taxpayer funds.

In a sweeping change, Trump has also terminated federal environmental justice roles that focus on aiding marginalized communities disproportionately impacted by environmental issues. Moreover, he has revoked long-standing DEI initiatives, including a landmark affirmative action executive order from 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Trump’s policy reversal extends beyond the federal sector, as he encourages similar actions in the private sector, where some companies have already scaled back DEI programs.

Reactions across Congress reflect stark divisions. U.S. Rep. James Comer, chair of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, lauded Trump’s actions, claiming they rectify bureaucratic excesses and promote in-person federal work for taxpayers. “No tax dollars can be used to fund the censorship industrial complex,” he stated.

Conversely, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar expressed disappointment at the lack of focus on pressing American issues, highlighting that these executive orders do not address concerns like escalating grocery prices. He emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives in policy-making.

The Congressional Black Caucus also condemned the executive order, arguing that it undermines economic progress and negatively impacts government effectiveness in serving communities. The group criticized the actions as a setback following efforts from the Biden administration to prioritize racial equity as a fundamental governmental commitment.

Last updated 12:42 p.m., Jan. 22, 2025