PBS eliminates its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion department following an investigation by journalist Bari Weiss, sparking debate about the future of DEI initiatives in federally supported organizations.
Key Takeaways
- PBS terminated its DEI department and fired two executives in response to a Trump administration executive order.
- The decision came after an inquiry from Bari Weiss’s Free Press about non-compliance with the executive order.
- PBS CEO Paula Kerger cited compliance with the executive order as the reason for the department’s elimination.
- The broadcaster faces scrutiny from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) regarding its hiring practices and use of federal funds.
- PBS maintains its commitment to reflecting diverse American communities despite the closure of its DEI office.
Executive Order Leads to DEI Department Closure
In a significant move, the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) has eliminated its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) department and terminated two executives following an investigation by journalist Bari Weiss’ Free Press. The decision comes in response to an executive order signed on President Trump’s inauguration day, mandating the removal of DEI-focused positions and funding in federally supported organizations.
PBS CEO Paula Kerger informed staff of the decision, citing compliance with the executive order as the primary reason. The network initially considered reassigning the DEI executives to other departments to bypass the order but ultimately decided to eliminate the DEI office entirely.
“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,” PBS said in a statement.
SCOOP: @TheFP asked @PBS about its alleged plans to hide its DEI department. Hours later, it was gone.
Josh Code (@writes__code) investigates: https://t.co/Arb98f15su
— The Free Press (@TheFP) February 11, 2025
Impact on PBS Leadership and Programs
The dismantling of the DEI department raises questions about the future of diversity-focused programming and hiring practices at PBS. The DEI department, under Loving’s leadership, had introduced programs such as “Meditation Mondays” and “Indigenous Healing Circles” to promote employee well-being and teamwork according to the broadcasting network. Despite the closure of the DEI office, PBS has emphasized its ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Scrutiny and Future Implications
PBS now faces increased scrutiny from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and potential legal questions regarding its hiring practices. CEO Paula Kerger is scheduled to appear before the House DOGE committee to discuss PBS’s use of federal funds, which is likely to be a contentious issue in light of recent events. The broadcast’s annual budget is subsidized by federal funds at around 15%, translating to $215 million.
The situation at PBS highlights the broader implications of Trump’s executive order for federally funded organizations. The White House has reinforced the order’s intent to end DEI discrimination in federal agencies and related entities that receive federal funds.
As PBS navigates this transition, the broadcasting landscape watches closely. The network’s ability to adhere to new federal guidelines will likely set a precedent for other publicly funded organizations grappling with similar challenges.
