Donald Trump’s inauguration was marked by tradition and significant executive actions reflecting his priorities. Among the 25 orders he signed that day, one stood out: the revocation of Executive Order 11246, known as Equal Employment Opportunity. Originally signed in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, this order banned discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin in federal employment and required federal contractors to adopt diversity-focused affirmative action plans.

While revoking the order doesn’t legalize discrimination, it weakens protections against racism and biases. Trump had previously criticized DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) programs, calling them “dangerous, demeaning, and immoral.” He, along with other Republicans, argues that such policies unfairly disadvantage majority groups.