01/23/2025

Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Condemns President Trump’s Elimination of DE&I Programs 

The organization called the executive order "a shameful regression"

The Ohio Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) strongly condemns President Donald Trump’s executive orders eliminating diversity, equity and Inclusion (DE&I) programs, including the dismantling of protections established by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965 to combat workplace discrimination. The president has even gone as far as to place all Government DE&I employees on immediate paid administrative leave. This blatant attack on DE&I initiatives undermines decades of progress toward fairness in federal hiring and advancement opportunities.

The administration’s baseless claim that white men have been harmed by DE&I programs and are owed reparations is appalling. Such rhetoric ignores the systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities and distorts the purpose of these programs, which are designed to create equitable opportunities for all.

“President Trump’s executive order is a shameful regression,” said OLBC President Upchurch. “He titles this order ‘ending illegal discrimination and restoring merit-based opportunity,’ but I must ask: On what merit did whites enslave Africans and build this country on their backs without restitution? On what merit were Black Americans raped, tortured and oppressed while white Americans reaped the rewards? Black Americans have fought tirelessly for civil rights, only to have their progress diminished by claims that advocating for equity somehow harms white men. DE&I programs are not about discrimination they are about leveling the playing field after centuries of injustice.”

The OLBC warns that these actions send a dangerous message: that equity is expendable, and inclusion is no longer a priority. We call on all levels of government and private organizations to reaffirm their commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. The OLBC remains resolute in advocating for policies that uplift marginalized communities and ensure a more just and equitable society.

This press release was distributed to organizations, the media and state agencies on Jan. 23, 2025 in response to recent executive orders and actions implemented by the Trump administration. Please select this link to learn more about OLCB.