A coalition of more than 20 civil and human rights organizations, representing over 100 million Americans, is calling on congressional leaders to push back against recent executive actions by the Trump Administration that they say threaten decades of progress on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
In a letter addressed to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader John Thune, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the Demand Diversity Roundtable expressed deep concern over federal rollbacks targeting DEI policies. The coalition argues that such measures undermine economic growth, global competitiveness, and core democratic values.
“The Trump Administration’s actions dismantling federal DEI programs and weakening anti-discrimination protections for workers are deeply disturbing,” the letter states. “These efforts threaten the livelihoods of hardworking Americans and seek to reverse longstanding bipartisan support for civil rights.”
The coalition also condemned comments made by former President Trump following a recent plane crash in Washington, D.C., accusing him of using DEI as a “racist, sexist, ableist dog whistle” rather than addressing the tragedy's victims.
Economic and Social Impact of DEI
Citing extensive research, the coalition emphasized the economic benefits of diversity and equal opportunity. A 2020 study by Citi estimated that closing racial economic gaps could have added $16 trillion to the U.S. GDP over two decades. Similarly, Brookings research suggested that equalizing opportunities across racial and ethnic lines could have increased GDP by nearly $23 trillion between 1990 and 2019.
Additionally, a 2023 McKinsey report found that companies ranking in the bottom 25% for ethnic and gender diversity consistently underperformed compared to more inclusive firms.
“Diversity strengthens America,” the letter asserts. “It is not a partisan value—it is an economic and social necessity.”
Call for Congressional Action
The Demand Diversity Roundtable, which includes leaders from the National Urban League, NAACP, National Council of Negro Women, and multiple other advocacy groups, is requesting an urgent meeting with congressional leaders to discuss ways to safeguard DEI programs.
Their appeal comes as the Trump Administration has issued executive orders limiting diversity-focused initiatives and pausing civil rights enforcement in key sectors. The coalition warns that without intervention, discriminatory practices in hiring, lending, and education will persist, stalling progress for historically marginalized communities.
The letter concludes with a request for immediate dialogue with congressional leadership, urging bipartisan action to protect civil rights and ensure equal opportunity for all Americans.