Trump revokes key civil rights employment orders

In a significant policy shift, President Donald Trump has enacted an executive order that revokes the longstanding Executive Order 11246, which mandated anti-discrimination measures and affirmative action for federal contractors. This new directive halts the enforcement of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, signaling a move towards a merit-based hiring approach rather than one that considers race, gender, or other characteristics. Trump's administration asserts that these changes will promote a more meritocratic environment, while critics argue that they dismantle vital protections for marginalized groups. The order also affects the leadership structure of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), with an emphasis on appointing individuals aligned with Trump's policies. As federal contractors represent a sizable portion of the U.S. workforce, the implications of these changes could be far-reaching for employees and businesses alike. The backlash against this order highlights ongoing national debates about diversity in the workplace and the rights of underrepresented employees.