The FBI has officially closed its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) The decision comes amid mounting scrutiny from Republican lawmakers, including President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to take office on Monday.
“In recent weeks, the FBI took steps to close the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, effective by December 2024,” an agency spokesperson confirmed.
The announcement followed a letter from Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn to FBI Director Christopher Wray earlier this month. Blackburn alleged that the FBI’s emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies had undermined its operational priorities and “endangered” public safety, referencing a New Year’s Day terrorist attack in New Orleans.
A Shift in Policy
The closure of the ODI marks a significant departure from the Biden administration’s DEI-focused initiatives. Critics argue that such programs divert resources away from core FBI missions, while proponents say they foster inclusion and improve organizational performance.
Senator Blackburn’s letter stated: “The FBI’s reliance on radical DEI practices has distracted from the agency’s essential mission to protect Americans.” She urged Director Wray to reconsider DEI initiatives, labeling them as a potential security risk.
Broader Implications
As President-elect Trump prepares to take office, his administration is expected to continue rolling back DEI-focused programs across federal agencies. Trump’s campaign platform emphasized eliminating “woke” policies in government institutions, citing concerns about national security and efficiency.
The FBI has not disclosed specific plans to reallocate resources previously dedicated to the ODI or whether it will replace the office with an alternative initiative. However, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a diverse workforce while maintaining its primary focus on national security.
With President Biden’s term concluding this week, the closure of the FBI’s ODI is seen as a signal of significant policy shifts under the incoming administration.
