On the cessation of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs in the United States
A statement from the Advocacy Committee for Women and Gender Justice
In less than two weeks, the new administration of the United States government has initiated the rapid dismantling of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies within both the public and private sector. Overwhelmingly, the private sector has started to roll back DEI programs that addressed key areas such as hiring, promotion, salary alignment and employee benefits. The cessation of DEI initiatives represents a clear and present danger to women and marginalized communities across the country, threatening to eliminate job opportunities, fair pay and merit increases and increase labor force shortages.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) remains committed to diversity and representation as stated in our hiring policies and demonstrated in our employment practices. Furthermore, DEI policies align closely with the Christian faith, particularly considering the core Christian teachings on love, dignity and equality. DEI policies affirm Christian values of love for all people (Matthew 22:39), all are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27), equality and justice (Micah 6:8, Isaiah 1:17), welcoming the stranger (Matthew 25:35-40) and unity in diversity (1 Corinthians 12:12-14).
Since the implementation of DEI programs, women have earned, through merit, greater access to traditionally male-dominated fields, breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities in industries such as technology, engineering, finance, health care, public safety and the U.S. government, including the military —fields that were historically less accessible or welcoming. Additionally, DEI programs have supported women and marginalized populations working toward narrowing gender and ethnicity pay gaps, in opening doors to educational and leadership opportunities, and in addressing deep-rooted historical inequalities.
In essence, DEI policies align with a Christian understanding that God has called us by name (Isaiah 43:1) into this work and how God created each of us (Psalm 139), and thus, how we are called to treat others.
The Advocacy Committee for Women and Gender Justice, a standing committee of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), stands in solidarity with all women and marginalized populations in support of DEI policies that open opportunities for all. We strongly denounce the new administration’s lack of integrity, care and regard for women and marginalized populations in the country. We call on the current administration and private sector to restore DEI policies, curricula and protections that were stripped from more than half the labor force in the United States.
Learn more about the Advocacy Committee for Women and Gender Justice here.
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