Congress Urges Companies to Uphold DEI Amid Legal Challenges

Democratic lawmakers appeal to major corporations to maintain diversity programs as reverse discrimination cases rise.

A group of 49 Democratic House members, led by Rep. Robert Garcia, sent a letter to Fortune 1000 companies advocating for the retention of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
The letter follows several major corporations, including Ford and Harley-Davidson, reducing their DEI initiatives after the Supreme Court's decision against affirmative action in college admissions.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission reported a 10% increase in workplace discrimination complaints in 2023, highlighting the ongoing need for DEI efforts.
Reverse discrimination lawsuits are gaining traction, with the Supreme Court set to hear a case that could lower the bar for such claims.
Critics argue DEI initiatives create division, while supporters see them as essential to preventing discrimination and fostering inclusive workplaces.