On Friday, US President Donald Trump issued an order directing federal agencies to dismiss employees involved in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs within 60 days. This move is part of a series of decisive actions Trump has taken since beginning his second term in office.

This new directive follows a previous decision to place DEI staff on paid leave and requires agency heads to submit plans by the end of the week on reducing DEI office staff. According to a memo from the US Office of Personnel Management, each agency, department, or commission leader must act to terminate all DEI, DEIA, and "environmental justice" positions and offices within the 60-day window, to the extent permitted by law.

The memo particularly targets roles related to DEI, DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility), and environmental justice initiatives, signaling a significant shift in federal policy. Environmental justice, as defined by the Environmental Protection Agency, aims to ensure fair treatment and participation for all individuals in decision-making processes that affect human health and the environment, irrespective of race, income, or other factors.

Trump had criticized DEI programs during his presidential campaign, labeling them as discriminatory against white men, which resonated with his supporters and supported his broader push to roll back progressive policies. The 78-year-old Republican has also promised to abandon policies supporting transgender rights, including recognizing only two genders.

His administration has encouraged federal agencies to look for ways to "disguise" DEI programs with vague language, and he has targeted gender diversity recognition, particularly focusing on transgender individuals, women in sports, and gender-affirming care for children.

Additionally, Trump has already ended what he called "radical" affirmative action in federal contracts, reversing a policy from the 1960s aimed at fighting racism. This latest directive is part of a broader effort to reshape federal priorities in line with Trump's conservative platform.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from The Times of India