Pennsylvania to maintain DEI programs despite Trump administration’s actions, lawmaker says
Fallon Roth, a journalist from The Philadelphia Inquirer, wrote an article on a particular topic.
State Senator Art Haywood expressed confidence in Pennsylvania’s ability to uphold its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives despite President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at DEI and affirmative action programs at the federal level. Haywood believes that with the support of the state legislature and Governor Josh Shapiro, the state can continue its commitment to promoting diversity and equality.
During a news conference on Thursday, Haywood emphasized the importance of ensuring that Pennsylvania’s laws have the necessary protections that were once provided by the federal government.
State Senator Art Hayward expressed his confidence in Pennsylvania’s commitment to maintaining its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives during a Black Lives Matter rally in Hummelstown in 2020.
During a news conference held at Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church, a historic Black Methodist Episcopal church in Society Hill, the Democratic senator, who represents parts of Philadelphia and Montgomery County, expressed his hopes for the actions of the state legislature.
Clergy and activists joined him in condemning the recent executive orders by Trump. One of these orders, issued on Monday, instructs federal agencies to end any “illegal DEI and ‘diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility’ (DEIA) mandates, policies, programs, preferences, and activities in the Federal Government, under whatever name they appear.” Additionally, another order, issued on Tuesday, revokes President Lyndon B. Johnson’s executive order that mandated government contractors to implement affirmative action in their hiring and employment practices.
Haywood stated that the Legislature will need to consider passing laws to address the president’s affirmative action directive. He expressed confidence that Shapiro will take the necessary executive action to ensure inclusivity in the state.
Haywood emphasized that they fully support the governor’s initiatives and are committed to standing by his side. “That’s the kind of leadership we have, and we want to make it clear that the governor is not alone,” Haywood stated.
According to Shapiro, he is open to collaborating with Trump on the condition that it does not jeopardize the basic rights and liberties of the people of Pennsylvania.
Trump’s other executive orders are likely to directly affect Pennsylvanians. For instance, in Philadelphia, the president’s decision to implement a hiring freeze and require all work to be done in person will put additional pressure on the already limited number of federal workers in the city.
According to the Rev. Gregory Holston, a spokesperson for the Coalition to Defend Democracy, which includes the NAACP and unions, it is crucial to come together and unite in order to confront the far-reaching executive orders of President Trump. Holston emphasized that the removal of excellence from government poses a threat not only to people of color but also to white individuals.
Holston expressed the importance of unity and collaboration in countering such initiatives. He emphasized the need to work together and believe in the power of diversity. Holston also highlighted the significance of standing up against these actions, including those supported by Donald Trump, and making it known that America is stronger when it embraces diversity.
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