National civil rights leaders have reached out to both Republican and Democratic congressional leaders to address their concerns over President Donald Trump’s efforts to dismantle diversity programs within federal agencies. The leaders highlighted that such actions not only undermine equal opportunity but also pose a threat to America’s economic growth and democratic values. Following a meeting in Washington, D.C., where civil rights organizations voiced their worries about Trump’s executive order eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, the leaders emphasized the importance of speaking out against these changes.

Trump’s executive order to abolish DEI programs across the federal government has sparked debates, with his administration arguing that such initiatives discriminate against white Americans. The civil rights activists condemned Trump’s implication that DEI policies could have played a role in a recent tragic aircraft collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, labeling it as a divisive tactic. Various organizations, including the National Council of Jewish Women and the NAACP, have signed the letter advocating for the preservation of diversity efforts.

Moreover, civil rights leaders warned corporations against following Trump’s lead in rolling back diversity initiatives, emphasizing the importance of providing equal opportunities regardless of program names. The discussion also touched upon the underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic individuals in senior leadership positions in corporate America. Concerns over corporations scaling back diversity programs have led civil rights groups to threaten boycotts and establish commissions to monitor such actions. Overall, the pushback against the dismantling of diversity programs underscores the ongoing struggle for inclusivity and equality in society.