Trump's Executive Order Targets DEI Practices, Directs Investigations of 76 Universities with Endowments Over $1 Billion

Jan 22, 2025, 01:08 PM

Former President Donald Trump's new executive order mandates federal agencies to investigate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices across various sectors. The order instructs the Attorney General to develop a plan that includes up to nine potential civil compliance investigations targeting publicly traded corporations, large non-profit organizations, and institutions of higher education with endowments exceeding $1 billion. Specifically, the order focuses on 76 private universities with substantial endowments, aiming to address illegal discrimination and preferences associated with DEI initiatives. Agency heads are required to identify the most egregious DEI practitioners within 120 days, facilitating investigations into entities with significant financial assets, including foundations with over $500 million.