In the US, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) closed its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), pre-empting the second term of the country’s newly reelected president, convicted felon TV personality Donald Trump.
In truth, the FBI took steps to close its diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) office in December 2024, but news about this only broke recently. No reason was provided on why the agency is now – in essence – anti-diversity, anti-equality and anti-inclusiveness.
The FBI’s ODI was created in 2012 during Barack Obama’s administration to provide “guidance and implement programs that promote a diverse and inclusive workplace that allows all employees to succeed and advance.” Scott McMillion was FBI’s first chief diversity officer.
The FBI used to have a page on diversity and inclusion, which stressed that the agency is “committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce.”
“We believe that differences in thought and belief, in race and religion, in orientation, and in ability contribute to more effective decision making, drive innovation, and enhance the employee experience. We know that a more diverse workforce allows us to connect with and maintain the trust of the American people. We also understand we have work to do. We stand committed, as today’s FBI, to fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity.”
Trump, commenting on the ODI closure on Truth Social, stated that the DEI office “never should have been opened and, if it was, should have closed long ago.” He then alleged – yet again without a single proof, as he is prone to doing – that this is closing before he takes office because of corruption.
