Amtrak has officially terminated its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, aligning with federal directives. The railroad company, previously recognized for diversity efforts, shifts its focus toward broader workplace inclusion. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Amtrak has officially terminated its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, aligning with federal directives.
Source, photo: www.blackenterprise.com

Federal Orders Drive Amtrak’s Policy Shift

Employees were informed on February 6 through an internal memo from Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. He ordered agencies under his jurisdiction to eliminate initiatives tied to climate change, racial equity, or gender identity.

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Duffy’s directive follows President Donald Trump’s executive order issued on January 23. The order mandated the elimination of DEI-related policies and programs across all federal agencies.

Trump’s decision was influenced by a Supreme Court ruling that struck down affirmative action in college admissions. Chief Justice John Roberts emphasized that identity should not be based on race.

Amtrak’s Workplace Strategy and Future Plans

Amtrak has already removed diversity-related language from its website. A statement from CEO Stephen Gardner now highlights the company’s commitment to fostering a welcoming workplace culture.

Press releases from 2023 and 2024 discussing diversity efforts remain visible. However, links to detailed diversity reports from 2020 onward are now inaccessible.

Previously, the company reported a 55% promotion rate for diverse employees. Membership in Employee Resource Groups, which offer professional development, had grown by 60%.

In 2023, Forbes named Amtrak one of the Best Employers for Diversity. Former HR chief Qiana Spain credited this recognition to the company’s inclusive workplace policies.

Spain stated that Amtrak’s workforce strategy focused on recruitment, retention, and development. She considered the award a validation of the company’s long-term commitment to diversity.

Beyond DEI program cuts, Amtrak is also ending remote work arrangements for employees. The company confirmed that workers must return to the office four days per week.

This policy takes effect on March 3. It aligns with another executive order requiring federal employees to resume full-time in-office work.

Department and agency heads can authorize exemptions if necessary. However, most employees are expected to comply with the new in-office mandate.

Amtrak’s decision to end DEI initiatives reflects broader policy shifts within the federal government. The Supreme Court ruling and Trump’s executive orders continue to reshape workplace policies.

Some critics argue that eliminating diversity programs reduces opportunities for underrepresented groups. Others claim it allows companies to focus on merit-based advancement.

Supporters of the change believe workplace policies should prioritize skills, performance, and experience. They argue that DEI initiatives often introduce unnecessary complexities.

Opponents counter that diversity programs help create equitable opportunities for employees from different backgrounds. They see the rollback as a step backward for corporate inclusion efforts.

The debate over DEI policies remains highly contentious. Companies, government agencies, and advocacy groups continue to weigh in on the broader implications.

Amtrak’s workplace strategy now shifts toward general inclusion efforts without specific diversity targets. The company’s leadership maintains that all employees will be valued.

While some employees support the decision, others express concerns about long-term workplace culture changes. The full impact of these shifts remains uncertain.

For now, Amtrak moves forward under new federal directives. The company is adapting to evolving workplace policies and government regulations.

Source, photo: www.blackenterprise.com

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