On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump marked his return to the White House by signing a series of executive orders that radically reshaped federal diversity and gender policies. These measures, which fulfilled promises from his 2024 campaign, were described by the administration as necessary to end “unpopular, inflationary, illegal, and radical practices within every agency and office of the Federal Government.”
One of the most consequential orders mandates that all federal agencies recognise only two sexes, male and female, which the administration called “fundamental and incontrovertible reality.” In his inaugural address, Trump said, “As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female.” The directive drew immediate backlash from advocacy groups, who view it as a direct attack on transgender and nonbinary individuals.
Redefining Gender: Male and Female Only
The executive order declared, “Sex is not a synonym for and does not include the concept of ‘gender identity,’” underscoring the administration’s traditional stance on the issue. LGBTQ+ rights organisations have criticised the policy as regressive, warning of its potential to erase years of progress in recognising gender diversity.
“This isn’t just policy; it’s personal,” said Maria Lopez, a transgender rights advocate. “It denies the lived experiences of millions of Americans and undermines their ability to thrive.”
“War on Woke”: DEI Initiatives Eliminated
Another set of orders targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes across all federal agencies. Trump’s administration has referred to these initiatives as “radical” and pledged to replace them with a “merit-based” system. A memo from the Office of Personnel Management instructed agency heads to place DEI employees on paid leave by January 22 and to plan for their dismissal by the end of the month.
In a statement, an administration official remarked, “This is about restoring common sense and fairness in government operations. DEI programs have been a wasteful misuse of taxpayer dollars.”
Reactions to Shifting Policies
Trump’s orders have already rippled through the private sector. Several companies, including Meta, McDonald’s, and Amazon, have scaled back or eliminated their DEI programs since his election. “These decisions were business-driven,” said an anonymous source at Meta, “but there’s no denying that the political climate made it easier to move in this direction.”
Conversely, corporations such as Apple and Target have intensified their dedication to diversity and inclusion. “We believe in creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome,” said Target CEO Brian Cornell in a statement. “That commitment has not wavered.”
Civil rights organizations have vowed to challenge the new policies in court. Advocates warn that the rollback of DEI initiatives and the redefinition of gender will disproportionately harm marginalized communities.
“This is a direct assault on progress,” said Kendra Blackwell, a racial equity advocate. “DEI programs were designed to address historic injustices and create opportunities for everyone. Dismantling them sends a dangerous message.”
Global Implications of Gender Policy Changes
Health experts have also raised alarms. The World Health Organization (WHO) has long warned that rigid gender norms can lead to violence, stigma, and discrimination, particularly against transgender and nonbinary individuals. “Policies like this not only harm mental health but can have devastating physical consequences as well,” said Dr. Ayesha Gupta, a global health specialist.
The administration’s moves have also drawn international criticism. Many see the policies as out of step with global trends toward greater inclusion and acceptance of gender diversity.
Vision for Government and Society
Trump’s administration describes these actions as part of a broader effort to create a colourblind, merit-based society. “We will forge a society that is colourblind and merit-based,” Trump declared during his inaugural address. “Every American will be judged not by their identity but by their abilities and contributions.”
While supporters argue that these changes will level the playing field, critics contend they ignore systemic barriers that still exist. The debate over diversity and inclusion in America’s public and private sectors is far from settled, and Trump’s policies have ensured that these issues will remain at the forefront of national discourse.
