The Legal Landscape
Despite the heated rhetoric, most of what was “legal” before 2025 is legal today.
“The ‘Illegal DEI’ Rhetoric is Intended to Confuse”
“The phrase ‘illegal DEI’ is intended to confuse and deter. But here's the truth: many policies and practices designed to prevent discrimination and strengthen diversity and inclusion are actually required by federal and/or state law, while others remain lawful even as they draw political attention”
“DEI is not illegal.
Discrimination is.”
“The law still allows—and in some cases requires—employers, nonprofits, and funders to expand opportunity, reduce barriers, and foster belonging through race-neutral criteria, consistent processes, and respectful communication.”
