Congressman Jackson condemns Trump's attack on diversity in Europe

As a member of the United States Congress and a lifelong advocate for civil rights and social justice, I strongly condemn the recent attempts by the U.S. administration to impose restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within European companies. These heavy-handed and misguided actions—threatening legal consequences for European firms that promote workplace inclusion—are not only a diplomatic affront but also an unlawful overreach that undermines global progress toward equality.

It is particularly disturbing to see these efforts unfold in the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which reaffirmed that diversity is a compelling interest of the United States government, particularly in our military and other institutions vital to national security. The decision recognized that diversity strengthens our armed forces, ensuring cohesion, readiness, and operational success. If DEI is essential to the strength of our military—the very institution charged with defending American democracy—then the same principles hold true across all sectors of our society and economy.

The current administration’s attempt to dismantle DEI programs through executive fiat contradicts established legal precedent and violates federal anti-discrimination laws. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination, and dismantling DEI initiatives aimed at ensuring compliance with these laws is, in itself, unlawful. These efforts are not just politically motivated; they are legally indefensible.

France’s forceful rejection of this overreach is commendable. French Foreign Trade Minister Laurent Saint-Martin and Gender Equality Minister Aurore Bergé have made it clear that their nation will not bow to pressure that runs counter to their values of inclusion and equal opportunity. The United States should take a lesson from its allies rather than attempt to export regressive policies that undermine human rights and economic advancement.

Let me be clear: attacks on DEI initiatives are not just attacks on progressive ideals—they are attacks on the very legal foundations of equal opportunity in the United States and abroad. These policies are not just moral imperatives; they are legal obligations. I call on my colleagues in Congress, the business community, and international leaders to resist these unlawful and counterproductive efforts. We must ensure that America leads by example in championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, rather than engaging in reckless policies that harm our standing in the world and violate our own laws.