DOJ Pride Shuts Down After Three Decades Amid Changes in Federal DEI Policies
The LGBTQ employee resource group at the Department of Justice disbands in response to new government directives.
The Department of Justice's LGBTQ employee resource group, DOJ Pride, has officially shut down after more than 30 years of operation. This decision comes less than two weeks after President Donald Trump signed an executive order aiming to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within federal agencies.
In an email sent to members Tuesday evening, the group’s board announced that DOJ Pride would "cease operations effective immediately." The email explained that this move was made "in the interest and for the protection of all members" amidst the current "uncertainty and concern."
"We have made this decision in the interest and for the protection of all members," the email stated. "We hope to rebuild in the future." The board also expressed appreciation for the understanding and support from members during this difficult time.
DOJ Pride, founded in 1994, had long served as a vital resource for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and allied employees within the Department of Justice. At its inception, when same-sex marriage was illegal and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals was more prevalent, the group provided a sense of community and safety for employees. It hosted events, lectures, and worked with agency leadership to address key issues affecting LGBTQ+ staffers.
However, after Trump's inauguration, the administration enacted policies targeting DEI efforts, including a ban on “radical and wasteful” DEI programs across federal agencies. This included halting the activities of various employee resource groups. According to a DOJ staffer who spoke on the condition of anonymity, the closure of DOJ Pride is a "remarkable and alarming step backward" that brings to mind the days when federal employees were fired or barred from employment for being gay.
“It's shuttering, and it’s extraordinarily alarming,” the staffer said. “If I could go back into the closet at work, I would.”
The DOJ spokesperson commented on the administration’s stance, emphasizing that while it does not specifically target employee resource groups, it strongly supports the First Amendment and "freedom of association." The spokesperson noted that if employees wish to form groups, they are free to do so under this constitutional right.
The closure of DOJ Pride is part of a larger shift affecting other employee affinity groups within federal agencies. A number of organizations, including the DOJ Gender Equality Network, have also ceased operations or suspended activities in line with the new executive orders. It remains unclear how widespread these changes will be across other federal departments.
While the White House has not yet responded to requests for comment on DOJ Pride’s shutdown, the end of this group represents a significant change in how federal employees, particularly those within marginalized communities, can organize and advocate for their rights in the workplace.