Trump Rescinds Johnson’s Affirmative Action Order: Major Shift

BREAKING: President Trump has signed an executive order rescinding Lyndon Johnson's EO 11246, which established affirmative action, and banning all federal contractors and publicly-funded universities from practicing race-based discrimination, including DEI.

A massive shift.

On January 22, 2025, a significant political development occurred when President Trump signed an executive order that rescinded Lyndon Johnson’s Executive Order 11246. This order, originally established in 1965, laid the groundwork for affirmative action in the United States, impacting federal contractors and publicly-funded universities. The recent executive order marks a pivotal shift in the nation’s approach to race-based discrimination and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

### Understanding the Executive Order

The newly signed executive order prohibits federal contractors and publicly-funded universities from engaging in race-based discrimination. This means that entities that receive federal funding will no longer be able to implement policies that take race into account when making decisions about hiring, admissions, or resource allocation. The move to rescind EO 11246 is seen as a response to growing debates around affirmative action and its effectiveness in promoting true equality in the workplace and educational institutions.

### Implications of the Rescission

The implications of this executive order are profound and multifaceted. For federal contractors, the ban on race-based discrimination means a reevaluation of hiring practices and possibly a shift towards merit-based criteria devoid of racial considerations. Public universities will also need to reconsider their admissions policies, which often include affirmative action measures designed to increase diversity within their student bodies.

Critics of affirmative action argue that race-based policies perpetuate division and do not address the root causes of inequality. They believe that implementing a meritocratic system will lead to fairer outcomes. However, proponents of affirmative action assert that these measures are essential for correcting historical injustices and ensuring equal opportunities for underrepresented groups.

### The Debate Surrounding DEI Initiatives

The executive order also directly impacts DEI initiatives, which have become commonplace in many organizations and institutions. These programs aim to create inclusive environments that embrace diversity in all forms. With the new restrictions in place, many organizations may find themselves at a crossroads, needing to balance compliance with federal regulations and their commitment to fostering an inclusive culture.

### Reactions and Future Considerations

Reactions to this executive order have been mixed, with strong opinions on both sides. Supporters of the order celebrate it as a step towards eliminating what they see as reverse discrimination. In contrast, opponents view it as a detrimental move that could undermine years of progress in achieving racial equality.

As this situation unfolds, it will be crucial for stakeholders, including educators, employers, and policymakers, to engage in dialogue about the future of affirmative action and DEI initiatives. The conversation surrounding race and equality in America is far from over, and this executive order is likely to serve as a catalyst for renewed debate.

### Conclusion

In summary, President Trump’s signing of the executive order to rescind EO 11246 signifies a monumental shift in the landscape of affirmative action and race-based policies in the United States. As federal contractors and publicly-funded universities navigate this change, the implications for diversity, equity, and inclusion will continue to evolve. The ongoing discourse will determine how these institutions adapt to the new landscape while striving for fairness and equality. The future of affirmative action remains uncertain, and its implications will resonate across various sectors in the years to come.

BREAKING: President Trump has signed an executive order rescinding Lyndon Johnson’s EO 11246, which established affirmative action, and banning all federal contractors and publicly-funded universities from practicing race-based discrimination, including DEI.

A massive shift.

— Christopher F. Rufo (@realchrisrufo) January 22, 2025

BREAKING: President Trump has signed an executive order rescinding Lyndon Johnson’s EO 11246, which established affirmative action, and banning all federal contractors and publicly-funded universities from practicing race-based discrimination, including DEI.

On January 22, 2025, the political landscape shifted dramatically when President Trump signed an executive order that has drawn attention from every corner of the United States. This order rescinds Lyndon Johnson’s EO 11246, a cornerstone of affirmative action that aimed to promote equal opportunities in education and employment. The implications of this decision are significant, especially for federal contractors and publicly-funded universities, which will now be banned from practicing race-based discrimination, including the controversial Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

A Massive Shift

This move represents a massive shift in the way the federal government approaches issues of race and discrimination. For decades, affirmative action has been a contentious topic, with supporters advocating for its necessity in addressing systemic inequalities, while opponents argue that it promotes reverse discrimination. By rescinding EO 11246, President Trump is aligning with a growing faction that believes in a merit-based system devoid of race considerations.

The Historical Context of EO 11246

To understand the full impact of this executive order, it’s essential to look back at the history of EO 11246. Signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965, this executive order aimed to combat discrimination in hiring and employment practices among federal contractors. It required these contractors to take affirmative action to ensure equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Over the years, this policy has been credited with increasing diversity in the workplace, but it has also faced challenges and criticisms.

The Current Landscape of Affirmative Action

Affirmative action policies have been under scrutiny for years, with numerous court cases challenging their legality and effectiveness. The debate often centers around whether such policies truly level the playing field or create new forms of bias. Critics argue that affirmative action can lead to less qualified candidates being favored over more qualified ones based solely on their race or background. This new executive order could be seen as a response to these ongoing debates, signaling a shift towards a more colorblind approach to hiring and admissions.

The Role of DEI in Education and Employment

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have become increasingly prevalent in both educational institutions and corporate environments. These programs are designed to create a more inclusive atmosphere and address historical injustices faced by marginalized communities. However, they have also come under fire from those who believe such initiatives can lead to divisive practices. With President Trump’s new order, the future of DEI programs in publicly-funded universities and among federal contractors is now uncertain.

The Reactions to the Executive Order

The reactions to Trump’s executive order have been swift and varied. Supporters argue that this decision restores fairness in hiring practices and promotes true equality by eliminating race as a factor. They believe that everyone should be judged solely on their qualifications and not their racial background. On the other hand, critics are voicing concerns that this move could roll back decades of progress toward achieving racial equity. Many fear that it will hinder efforts to address systemic inequalities and diminish the representation of marginalized groups in both academia and the workforce.

The Implications for Federal Contractors

Federal contractors are now facing a significant change in their operational landscape. With the new executive order banning race-based discrimination, these organizations will need to reassess their hiring and recruitment practices. Many may need to overhaul their policies to comply with this mandate, which could have a ripple effect across various industries. The emphasis may shift towards qualifications and experience over demographic considerations, which could be a double-edged sword depending on the perspective one holds regarding systemic discrimination.

The Future of Publicly-Funded Universities

Publicly-funded universities will also feel the impact of this executive order. For institutions that have embraced DEI initiatives as a means of fostering a diverse student body and faculty, the new regulations could pose significant challenges. Universities may need to rethink their admissions criteria and faculty hiring processes, potentially leading to a less diverse environment. This shift raises questions about how universities can maintain their commitment to inclusion while adhering to the new federal guidelines.

The Broader Conversation on Race and Equality

This executive order is part of a broader national conversation about race, equality, and justice in America. As society grapples with these complex issues, the implications of Trump’s decision will likely fuel debates across the political spectrum. It challenges individuals and organizations to reconsider their positions on affirmative action and race-based initiatives, igniting discussions that will shape the future of civil rights policy in the United States.

What’s Next?

As this situation unfolds, it will be crucial for both supporters and opponents of this executive order to engage in constructive dialogue. The implications of rescinding EO 11246 are far-reaching, and the stakes are high for millions of individuals impacted by these policies. The ongoing discourse around affirmative action, DEI, and race-based discrimination will continue to evolve, reflecting the complex realities of our society.

In the end, the executive order signed by President Trump marks a pivotal moment in U.S. history, where the conversation surrounding race and equality is set to take on new dimensions. Whether this leads to a more equitable society or a regression of civil rights gains remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the conversation is far from over.