New York Attorney General Letitia James, along with 11 other state attorneys general, has issued a joint statement in response to President Trump's recent executive orders. These orders aim to dismantle diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) policies and programs.
The group of attorneys general criticized the executive orders as "unnecessary and disingenuous," arguing that they do not address discrimination effectively. They emphasized that the Trump administration already has civil rights laws available to combat real discrimination. The statement asserts that the current DEIA policies are lawful and beneficial for all Americans by fostering inclusive environments.
According to the statement: "President Trump’s attack on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives undermines a simple and unassailable goal: to create fairer workplaces and opportunities for all to succeed." The attorneys general expressed opposition to what they see as an attempt by the President to use longstanding policies against historical inequities for political purposes.
The statement further argues that DEIA initiatives help prevent discrimination while promoting respect and understanding among diverse groups. It highlights that such initiatives ensure fair treatment and equal access in workplace settings without compromising individual merit or standards.
As chief law enforcement officers of their states, the attorneys general pledged commitment to enforcing civil rights laws against discriminatory practices. They concluded by condemning any form of discrimination while opposing President Trump's recent actions.
Joining Attorney General James in this statement are her counterparts from California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, and Washington.