We, the people, demand the immediate reinstatement of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives across federal agencies, the reinstatement of officials affected by the recent executive order, and compensation for their forced time away. These programs are more than policies—they are vital protections against systemic discrimination and essential tools to advance civil rights for all Americans. The dismantling of DEI programs is not just a policy rollback; it is a violation of our civil rights and an affront to the progress this country has made toward equality.

On January 21, 2025 President Trump signed an executive order eliminating DEI programs and placing key federal officials on leave. This decision undermines the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. By dismantling DEI initiatives, this order directly removes mechanisms designed to enforce civil rights protections in federal workplaces and hiring practices.

Without DEI programs, systemic barriers are allowed to persist unchecked, particularly in hiring, promotion, and workplace culture. The elimination of these initiatives sends a message that diversity, equity, and inclusion are no longer priorities for our government, leaving marginalized communities vulnerable to discrimination and exclusion.

Why This Violates Civil Rights:

1. Contradicts Title VII of the Civil Rights Act:

• Title VII mandates equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination. DEI initiatives help enforce this by addressing systemic biases in hiring, promotions, and workplace environments.

2. Neglects Affirmative Action Obligations:

• Federal contractors are required to take affirmative action to promote equal opportunity. The removal of DEI programs dismantles safeguards against discriminatory practices, leaving marginalized groups without representation or recourse.

3. Erodes Protections for Marginalized Groups:

• The absence of DEI programs weakens oversight and accountability, creating an environment where discrimination is more likely to occur, in violation of civil rights laws.

 

Our Demands:

1. The immediate reinstatement of all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs in federal agencies to uphold civil rights and ensure fair opportunities for all Americans.

2. The reinstatement of all federal agency officials who were placed on leave due to the executive order, with full compensation for the time they were unfairly removed from their roles.

3. A commitment to civil rights protections in federal hiring and workplace policies, including a review of any actions that violate the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related laws.

4. The creation of safeguards to prevent future executive overreach that undermines civil rights and DEI initiatives.

 

Why This Matters:

The removal of DEI programs is a direct attack on civil rights, fairness, and equality in our federal institutions. It threatens to undo decades of progress and leaves marginalized communities more vulnerable than ever. This action is not just an affront to federal employees—it is a threat to every American who believes in justice, equality, and the rule of law.

By dismantling DEI, the government has made a statement that it values exclusion over inclusion and division over unity. We must take a stand now to restore what has been lost and protect the future for generations to come.

 

Call to Action:

Sign this petition to demand the reinstatement of DEI initiatives, the reinstatement and compensation of affected federal officials, and the protection of civil rights in federal agencies. Together, we can hold our government accountable and ensure that no one is denied the opportunities they rightfully deserve.

We cannot allow our progress to be erased. Join us today.