US President Donald Trump has escalated his crackdown on diversity programs and immigration, ordering federal employees in diversity offices to be put on paid leave. This move is part of Trump’s hardline agenda, which includes a pledge to deport millions of undocumented immigrants.
The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, stated that Trump aims to “return America to a merit-based society where people are hired based on their skills, not for the color of their skin.” However, critics argue that this approach discriminates against minority groups and undermines efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.
Trump has also issued an executive order ending affirmative action in awarding federal contracts, revoking an order that dates back to the 1960s. Additionally, he has ordered an end to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives when hiring employees for the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA).
The US Justice Department has threatened to prosecute local and state authorities that fail to cooperate with Trump’s immigration policies. This move has sparked concerns among civil rights groups, who argue that it will lead to increased discrimination and marginalization of minority communities.
Trump’s actions have been met with defiance from some quarters, including a rare public rebuke from a bishop during his inaugural service. Washington National Cathedral Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde urged Trump to “have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now,” referencing the fear and uncertainty among immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has condemned Trump’s actions, arguing that they are part of a broader effort to roll back civil rights gains and promote a white supremacist agenda ¹.
