Title: Trump Rolls Back Longstanding Workplace Discrimination Measure
Trump's recent mandate demands that employers certify they don't possess "illegal" diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. He also instructs federal agencies to investigate up to nine targets for DEI practices, extending this scrutiny to publicly-traded private corporations, large nonprofits, and significant foundations.
This order, once signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, had principally affected major businesses and numerous small firms, making up around a quarter of workers in the United States. It survived under both Democratic and Republican administrations, including Trump's initial term.
The move instills unease, as businesses fear penalties from racially-based or gender-based discrimination, which may deter them from supporting female, minority, or protected classes. Critics anticipate employers may curtail their outreach programs for fear of crossing Trump's administration.
Craig Leen, former head of the Labor Department office that administered this order, clarifies that the order's rescission does not permit contractors to start discriminating. Employers must still adhere to Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination.
The rescinded order did not permit quotas or preferences, stating strict forbiddance. It required contractors to file annual reports on their employment practices, potentially discovering discrimination needing compensation to the affected workers.
The negligence of information disclosure from companies may hinder monitoring employment practices, making it difficult for individuals to prove discrimination claims. Fear of investigation and targeting may also deter businesses from continuing their commitment to a diverse workforce.
This recent mandate primarily affects major businesses and numerous small firms, making up a significant portion of the workforce in the United States. consequently, businesses are concerned about potential penalties for perceived racially-based or gender-based discrimination, which could discourage their support for female, minority, or protected classes in the business world.
