On January 20, President Donald Trump signed an executive order, aimed at dismantling what he described as “radical and wasteful government DEI programs and preferences.” The order says Americans “deserve a government committed to serving every person with equal dignity and respect,” and mandates the termination of all programs associated with Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) across federal agencies.
The executive order instructs the Office of Budget Management and the US Attorney General to coordinate the dismantling of these programs, which the administration claims are discriminatory. The move raises a critical question: how does the removal of these policies ensure every individual is served equally?
Critics argue that, without DEI initiatives, marginalized groups will face increased barriers to access and opportunity: potentially losing vital support systems that promote equity and risking a return to (or strengthening of) systemic inequalities.
In response to the federal rollback, municipal leaders in Massachusetts are taking a stand, expressing their commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion at the local level, regardless of the federal directive. Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell, along with her counterparts from 12 other states, issued a statement affirming that these DEI policies are consistent with state and federal anti-discrimination laws. Campbell emphasized that these initiatives are essential for fostering environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
The Trump administration’s move raises questions for students and staff at publicly-funded institutions, like MCLA. Although the college receives federal funding, it operates under Massachusetts state jurisdiction, which means it will continue to adhere to state laws promoting equity and inclusion. MCLA is committed to maintaining its DEI initiatives despite federal changes and will review its policies to ensure compliance with state laws that protect against discrimination.
Andre Lynch, the Vice Provost for Institutional Equity and Belonging at MCLA, recently sent out an email to students, stating “[MCLA] rejects hate in all its forms… we remain dedicated to addressing these potential changes with care, thoughtfulness, and collaboration”.
As the landscape of DEI initiatives evolves rapidly, MCLA and other state institutions will need to navigate these changes carefully to protect equal access to educational opportunities. Schools are required to comply with federal and state civil rights laws that ensure educational opportunities are provided on an equal basis. This includes reviewing policies and practices to confirm they do not unnecessarily limit opportunities based on race or other protected characteristics.
The federal government’s move to roll back DEI initiatives has sparked heated debate about the future of equity and inclusion in education, and beyond. While the executive order aims to eliminate what it deems “discriminatory practices”, many argue that the move itself is discriminatory, as these policies are crucial for ensuring equal access and opportunity for all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities.
It’s clear the commitment of Massachusetts leaders to uphold DEI principles will play a vital role in shaping the educational landscape for institutions like MCLA. The ongoing dialogue around these issues will be essential in determining how best to serve every individual with the dignity and respect they deserve.
