The National Security Agency (NSA) is set to remove 27 specific words related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) from its websites and internal networks, sparking debate about the future of such policies in federal agencies.
At a Glance
- NSA to remove 27 DEI-related terms from websites and internal networks
- Action follows President Trump’s order to eliminate DEI programs and language
- Removal causing disruption to mission-related work and internal systems
- Other federal agencies also removing DEI references from their websites
- Critics argue the move undermines diversity efforts and national unity
NSA’s “Big Delete” Operation
The National Security Agency (NSA) is embarking on a significant policy shift, removing 27 specific words related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) from its websites and internal networks. This action, dubbed the “Big Delete” operation, is in response to President Trump’s Executive Order to eliminate DEI programs and language across federal agencies.
The list of banned words includes terms such as “anti-racism,” “bias,” “diversity,” and “inclusion.” These terms are used in various NSA contexts, often unrelated to DEI initiatives, leading to unintended consequences and disruptions in mission-related work.
Trump’s Stance on DEI
President Trump has been vocal about his opposition to DEI policies, labeling them as “illegal” and detrimental to national unity. In his Executive Order, he argued that these policies undermine traditional American values and create an unfair system based on identity.
The removal of DEI language is not limited to the NSA. Other federal agencies, including the Department of Education and the Department of Justice, have also begun removing DEI references from their websites. The FBI closed its DEI office in December, further signaling a shift in federal policy regarding diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Challenges and Unintended Consequences
The NSA’s efforts to comply with the Executive Order have not been without challenges. The agency is struggling to identify “mission-related sites” to prevent accidental removal of crucial information. The purge is causing significant disruption, affecting internal network pages and project management software.
The NSA has clarified that the list of 27 words is not a “banned words” list but rather a tool for identifying content that needs updates or removal. However, the impact of this policy change extends beyond the agency itself, potentially affecting how the NSA is perceived by communities and stakeholders invested in DEI principles.
The removal of DEI language from federal agencies’ websites and internal systems raises questions about the future of diversity and inclusion efforts in government institutions. Critics argue that this move could undermine progress made in creating more inclusive workplaces and may negatively impact employee morale and recruitment efforts.
