Trump Revokes Landmark Anti-Discrimination Order for Federal Contractors

In a major policy shift, President Donald Trump today rescinded Executive Order 11246, a long-standing directive that had prohibited discrimination in hiring by federal contractors for nearly six decades. The move is part of the administration’s broader effort to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across government agencies and federally funded institutions.

Originally signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965, Executive Order 11246 required federal contractors and subcontractors to ensure equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. It also mandated affirmative action policies to address historical inequalities in hiring practices.

Over the years, the order has been a cornerstone of workplace anti-discrimination measures, impacting thousands of businesses engaged in federal contracts and affecting millions of employees.

Announcing the revocation, President Trump described the decision as a move towards a "merit-based system," arguing that federal hiring practices should prioritise individual qualifications rather than diversity metrics. The administration has previously criticised DEI initiatives, contending that they foster what it calls "reverse discrimination" and create unnecessary bureaucracy within federal agencies.

"Employment decisions should be based on merit and performance, not on arbitrary quotas or preferential treatment," Trump stated. "This administration is committed to ensuring fairness and opportunity for all Americans, without government-imposed hiring mandates."

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from civil rights organisations, corporate leaders, and Democratic lawmakers, who argue that repealing the order could erode decades of progress in promoting workplace equality. Opponents warn that without federal oversight, companies may face fewer obligations to implement inclusive hiring practices, potentially leading to increased discrimination.

“The president’s actions today take us backward,” said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “This order has helped dismantle barriers for women, people of colour, and other historically marginalised groups. Eliminating it sends the wrong message about our values as a nation.”

Business groups and conservative policymakers, however, have welcomed the move, asserting that DEI policies have, in some cases, led to unfair advantages for certain groups at the expense of others.

“This is a win for common sense,” said Senator Tom Cotton. “Government contractors should hire the best candidates based on skill and experience, not artificial diversity requirements.”

The repeal of Executive Order 11246 is expected to face legal challenges from civil rights groups, with some already preparing lawsuits to contest the administration’s decision. Meanwhile, major corporations with federal contracts will need to assess how the policy change affects their own DEI commitments and compliance obligations.

Image: The Trump White House

Public domain.