Trump's DEI crackdown forces US museums to dismantle diversity programs

In response to Donald Trump's executive orders targeting DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) initiatives, prominent cultural institutions in the U.S. are shutting down their diversity departments. Both the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art have announced the closure of their DEI offices, with the National Gallery also erasing relevant terms from its website. Trump's directive characterizes DEI programs as 'illegal and immoral discrimination' and prohibits federal funding for institutions resisting their dismantling. Meanwhile, federal DEI personnel are currently on paid leave as they await termination. The Association of Art Museum Directors emphasized the importance of adhering to the law while safeguarding diversity. Additionally, Trump rescinded Executive Order 14084, jeopardizing federal support for arts organizations. The movement to eliminate DEI programs began in 2024, particularly among businesses and universities in conservative states.