An analysis of over 80 Equity Action Plans released by federal agencies in line with President Biden's executive actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has revealed that the administration has integrated more than 500 DEI actions into the federal government.
A nonprofit group focused on keeping identity politics out of the medical field identified over 200 DEI-focused measures related to research, grant-writing, procurement, contracts, staffing expansions, training, and outreach to minority communities. Additionally, actions such as implementing racial equity meetings and initiatives centered on indigenous perspectives were noted.
Of the 500 actions, 36 were directly linked to medicine and healthcare policy. Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, chair of the group, emphasized the need to eliminate discrimination from government programs that differentiate based on race or sexual orientation.
Several Biden-Harris administration programs offering benefits based on immutable characteristics faced legal challenges, leading to shutdowns. For instance, a Department of Agriculture program favoring farmers based on sex and race was blocked by a federal judge for discriminating against White male farmers. Similarly, a relief program for restaurant owners post-COVID-19 was halted for providing preferences based on gender and race.
Furthermore, a federal judge ruled against the Department of Commerce's Minority Business Development Agency for refusing assistance to White applicants.
Vice President Harris has emphasized the distinction between equality and equity, stating that equitable treatment aims for everyone to reach the same outcome, acknowledging disparities in starting points. This perspective has drawn both support and criticism, with some likening it to Marxist ideology.
As the administration continues to implement DEI actions, the debate over equality versus equity and the impact on government programs remains a topic of discussion.
