Heads of U.S. federal agencies have been instructed to close all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices by Wednesday’s end, following a sweeping order from President Donald Trump. The move accompanies an executive action declaring that the federal government officially recognizes only two genders: male and female.
Under directives from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), department leaders must notify DEI employees that they are now on paid administrative leave. Acting OPM Director Charles Ezell confirmed in a memo obtained by Fox News that officials are expected to dismantle these offices—taking down websites, social media, and any other external-facing channels—before the day is out.
The OPM memo further requests that agencies issue an internal notice urging staff to report any efforts to “rebrand” or conceal existing DEI programs under vague language or alternative terms. “We need total compliance,” the memo reads, reinforcing the administration’s position that DEI initiatives run counter to Trump’s policy banning what he calls “gender ideology” within federal institutions.
DEI proponents argue that these offices foster inclusive workplaces and provide essential support to underrepresented communities. Critics contend the programs impose ideological agendas and stifle free debate. With the Wednesday deadline looming, many employees are left in limbo, awaiting further guidance on the fate of their roles and responsibilities.
