UPDATE (January 22, 2025):
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (ADAMS) – The state’s Black Legislative Caucus is condemning Governor Braun’s anti-diversity moves.
Braun last week signed an executive order eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion, known as DEI, in state government and replacing it with merit, excellence, and innovation along with closing the Office of the Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Officer.
Representative Earl Harris Jr., the leader of the caucus, says DEI “is not about giving any group a handout,” but it is about “giving everyone access by expanding opportunities for even more talented and qualified individuals, regardless of their identity.” He says the only people that Braun’s orders benefit are “folks who baselessly feel attacked by the mere mention of diversity in our workforce.”
Read more HERE
ORIGINAL STORY:
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (ADAMS) – After only a handful of days in office, Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed a slew of executive orders. One eliminates all diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in state government, otherwise known as DEI. Braun says will be replaced with MEI which Braun called merit, excellence, and innovation.
Indiana’s Senate Democratic Caucus called it a “regressive action” that “threatens to undermine Indiana’s progress toward building a state that works for all Hoosiers.”
(See full response below)
Governor Braun also signed executive orders that he says will cut 25 percent of government regulations. He adds they will also reduce qualifications for state jobs and professional licenses and mandate state employees to be back in their offices by July 1st.
Read more HERE
Braun says his actions are meant to make the state “more efficient, transparent, and accountable.” One of the executive orders eliminates all diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in state government.
See all Indiana Executive Orders HERE
Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus response to DEI executive order:
The Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus denounces Governor Mike Braun’s executive order eliminating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives within state government. This regressive action ignores the proven benefits of DEI efforts and threatens to undermine Indiana’s progress toward building a state that works for all Hoosiers.
“Governor Braun’s decision to dismantle DEI programs is a devastating misstep of Indiana’s values and potential,” said Sen. Shelli Yoder (D-Bloomington). “DEI initiatives add immense value to every corner of our state—they foster innovation, attract top talent and create opportunities that strengthen families, businesses and communities alike. Eliminating these programs is more than a misstep; it’s a deliberate choice to ignore what makes Indiana stronger and more competitive. DEI doesn’t just improve lives; it transforms them, breaking down systemic barriers and ensuring that every Hoosier has the chance to succeed. This regressive decision endangers our progress and undermines the inclusive future we should all be working toward.”
The elimination of DEI initiatives disregards overwhelming evidence that diversity strengthens organizations. A McKinsey study found that companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 35% more likely to outperform their peers. Additionally, inclusive workplaces are linked to increased innovation, better decision-making and improved financial performance—benefits that could directly enhance state government’s ability to serve its constituents effectively.
“This decision is not just a step backward; it’s a direct attack on the values of equity and inclusion that should define us as a state,” said Sen. Andrea Hunley (D-Indianapolis). “Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity for Indiana to thrive in the modern era. Stripping DEI efforts is a disservice to every Hoosier who believes in fairness and opportunity.”
Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives have addressed systemic inequities and improved public trust. Under Dr. Karrah Herring, Indiana’s first chief equity, inclusion and opportunity officer, initiatives like the Equity Data Portal increased transparency, equity training programs reached hundreds of stakeholders and hiring practices opened pathways for underrepresented groups. Eliminating these programs jeopardizes Indiana’s workforce and education progress, including efforts to address teacher shortages and declining college enrollment rates.
The Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus, which proudly represents the diversity of Indiana, remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing policies that promote equity, opportunity and inclusion for all. This is not a partisan issue—it’s a matter of ensuring our state’s future success.
“By dismantling DEI efforts, this administration is ignoring the realities faced by millions of Hoosiers,” said Sen. Rodney Pol Jr. (D-Chesterton). “Our government should be a model of fairness and opportunity, not a barrier to it. This is not about politics; it’s about doing what’s right for every Hoosier.”
The Caucus calls on Governor Braun to reverse this harmful decision and work with lawmakers to strengthen policies that reflect the values of fairness, respect and inclusivity. Hoosiers deserve a government that recognizes diversity as a strength, not a liability.
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