PBS Shuts DEI Office Following Trump's Order

PBS has shut down its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) office and terminated the positions of its senior vice president and director of DEI, in compliance with an executive order by President Donald Trump. The executive order mandates the elimination of DEI-focused positions in federally supported organizations, which PBS adhered to after being prompted by inquiries from Bari Weiss’ Free Press. PBS CEO Paula Kerger informed staff of the decision, emphasizing that the network will continue to serve all communities while adhering to its mission and values. This decision comes amidst an FCC investigation into PBS and NPR over funding and sponsorship issues, led by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, a Trump appointee. Despite the closure, PBS maintains its commitment to diversity and inclusion through its programming and engagement with American communities. The move is part of a broader federal effort to curtail DEI initiatives across government-supported entities.