PBS has recently closed its diversity, equity, and inclusion office in response to an executive order from President Donald Trump. This decision has affected the staff in that department, including DEI head Cecilia Loving. Despite this change, PBS remains committed to representing all of America within its organization.
A PBS spokesperson stated, “In order to best ensure we are in compliance with the President’s executive order around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, we have closed our DEI office. The staff members who served in that office are leaving PBS. We will continue to adhere to our mission and values. PBS will continue to reflect all of America and remain a welcoming place for everyone.”
This action follows a series of executive orders from Trump aimed at cutting DEI programs at a federal level, including among federal contractors and private companies. Additionally, PBS is facing an investigation by the Federal Communications Commission, prompted by threats from Trump.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr, appointed by Trump, has stated his intention to investigate PBS and NPR, both of which receive government funding, for potential violations regarding financial sponsor identification on air.
In the fiscal year 2022, PBS expanded its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team. The network’s second annual DEI report in February 2023 highlighted the establishment of a DEI Office and the hiring of staff members like Loving and DEI director Gina Leow. Employee resource groups and DEI advocates and committees were also implemented.
During this period, PBS reported that 44 percent of its workforce consisted of BIPOC individuals, marking a six-year high. This commitment to diversity and inclusion remains a priority for PBS moving forward.
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