Trump Orders Federal DEI Programs Dismantled Within 60 Days, Affects NASA and Private Sector

Jan 24, 2025, 07:09 PM

President Donald Trump has initiated a broad effort to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across the federal government. On January 23, 2025, Trump revoked a 60-year-old executive order that banned discrimination in federal government hiring practices, marking a significant move against DEI initiatives. He also ordered all federal DEI staff to be placed on paid leave immediately, with plans for eventual layoffs within 60 days. This action extends to federal contractors, as Trump revoked Executive Order 11246 of 1965, which prohibited employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Federal agencies, including NASA, have begun to comply with these orders by shutting down DEI offices and terminating related contracts. A memo from NASA's acting administrator Janet Petro highlighted that these programs were seen as divisive and wasteful. Additionally, federal websites have started removing DEI guidance and resources in response to Trump's directives. The administration's moves also signal potential investigations into private sector DEI initiatives, causing concern among corporate leaders.