Trump Orders Feds to Combat “Illegal” Corporate DEI Programs: 5 Takeaways for Private-Sector Employers + What You Should Do Now
President Trump just issued a far-reaching executive order targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in not only the federal government but also the private sector. The order directs federal agencies to “combat illegal private-sector DEI preferences, mandates, policies, programs, and activities” and to encourage private employers to instead implement the Trump administration’s policy of “individual initiative, excellence, and hard work.” While the order creates many unanswered questions and will likely face legal challenges, this Insight will explain what private employers need to know about these new federal anti-DEI initiatives and what you should do now. 5 Takeaways for Private-Sector Employers Here’s how Trump’s January 21 executive order impacts employers in the private sector. (To read about the order’s sweeping impact on federal contractors and subcontractors, click here .) 1. Employers Are Under Federal Pressure to End Certain DEI Progr...