NASA moves swiftly to end DEI programs, ask employees to "report" violations
NASA is terminating DEIA programs following Trump's executive orders, urging employees to report related activities. Other federal agencies are also dismantling similar initiatives, potentially disrupting critical research and public health efforts.
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NASA's acting administrator, Janet Petro, has announced the swift termination of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) programs within the agency, aligning with recent executive orders from President Trump aimed at dismantling such initiatives across the federal government. In an email to employees, Petro stated that these programs were divisive and a misuse of taxpayer funds. She urged employees to report any attempts to obscure DEIA-related activities, warning that failure to do so within ten days could lead to adverse consequences. This move reflects a broader trend among federal agencies, including the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation, which have also begun to dismantle similar programs aimed at increasing minority representation in science and engineering. The implications of these changes extend beyond DEIA programs, as many agencies have halted external communications and grant evaluations, potentially disrupting critical research and public health initiatives. The cancellation of these programs and the associated communication freezes may have long-lasting effects on federal research and public health efforts.
- NASA is ending DEIA programs in line with Trump's executive orders.
- Employees are encouraged to report any attempts to disguise DEIA activities.
- Other federal agencies are also dismantling similar programs.
- The halt in communications may disrupt critical research and public health initiatives.
- The changes reflect a significant shift in federal policy regarding diversity and inclusion efforts.
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