Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been the talk of the town since President Donald Trump announced his slew of executive orders. The Internet is trying to understand what DEI is and how it will affect Black and Brown communities. Read more about DEI and its effects inside.

DEI are foundational principles aimed at fostering a society where individuals from diverse backgrounds have equal opportunities and are actively included in various sectors like job security, educational placement and more. DEI initiatives strive to address systemic inequalities by promoting representation, fairness, and a sense of belonging for historically marginalized groups.

In January 2025, President Trump issued executive orders dismantling DEI programs at the federal level. These directives placed all federal DEI staff on paid leave, with plans for eventual layoffs, and rescinded policies promoting affirmative action. Federal agencies were instructed to discontinue DEI initiatives, marking a significant rollback of efforts to enhance diversity and address discrimination.

The impact of these executive orders on non-White Americans is profound. The elimination of DEI programs removes critical support systems designed to address disparities in employment, education, and other areas. Advocacy groups argue that dismantling these initiatives undermines protections against discrimination, potentially leading to a resurgence of biased practices and a decrease in workplace equality. The same issues advocates worked tirelessly to dismantle.

The rollback of DEI efforts also affects environmental justice initiatives. The administration has reversed policies that prioritized addressing pollution in Black, Latino, and low-income communities, such as the “Justice40” initiative, which mandated that 40 percent of environmental program benefits go to these communities. The dismantling of these efforts could exacerbate environmental health disparities in already vulnerable areas.

The administration’s actions have created a culture of fear among federal employees, with many agencies removing DEI-related materials from their websites and emphasizing “merit-based” principles. This shift may discourage discussions about diversity and inclusion, potentially stifling progress toward a more equitable society.

One of the most alarming companies to move forward with removing DEI efforts from their business’ hiring practice is Target. One of the leading retail brands in America decided that they would remove DEI, which has now affected Black-owned businesses being placed in the stores. Some businesses like The Lip Bar, and Tabitha Brown’s Target collection could be at risk of returning with this new policy in place.

Customers are livid and have since leaned towards boycotting their once favorite businesses and finding alternate community owned businesses to support instead. Some private companies and institutions have begun distancing themselves from DEI efforts, while others remain committed.

The long-term effects of these executive orders on non-White Americans will depend on various factors, including potential legal challenges, state-level policies, and the actions of private institutions. However, the immediate impact signifies a substantial shift in federal priorities, with significant consequences for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the United States.

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