Dallas to Examine Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Initiatives in Line with Executive Orders
Title: Dallas and Fort Worth Review DEI Programs Amidst Federal Pressure
Get ready, folks! The cities of Dallas and Fort Worth are taking a hard look at their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. All this because of President Donald Trump's executive orders that've got these cities feeling the heat. Here's the lowdown!
Dallas, y'all! The Dallas City Council made a unanimous decision to enlist City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert on a mission - to guarantee their DEI programs toe the line with federal directives. Council member Adam Bazaldua even added an amendment requesting Tolbert to brief the city council by no later than August 20. But why the hurry?
Well, the executive orders don't demand the termination of programs pushing for diversity, equity, and inclusion. However, sticking with the status quo could jeopardize Dallas' chances of securing federal grants. And if you remember, the city's received an average of $305.2 million in annual grants over the past three years. So, playing it safe is a no-brainer!
Now, let's head over to Fort Worth. The city council delayed a vote to scrap their diversity and inclusion department on Tuesday. They've put off the decision until Aug. 5, unless a special council meeting is called. Why the change of heart? The city could lose a whopping $277.1 million in federal dollars if they approve a resolution to suspend the department and other initiatives. Eek!
Community stakeholders, including the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce, are worried that if DEI programs are shut down, it could harm women and minority-owned small businesses. After all, these programs play a significant role in fostering business development and growth.
In conclusion, both Dallas and Fort Worth are navigating a tricky tightrope, balancing the need to comply with federal directives against the risk of losing substantial federal funding. The stakes are high, with potential federal grant losses exceeding half a billion dollars for both cities combined if DEI programs are cut outright. So stay tuned, folks - this story's far from over!
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- Against the backdrop of President Trump's executive orders, both Dallas and Fort Worth are reviewing their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies to match federal guidelines.
- In Dallas, the city council has commissioned City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert to ensure DEI programs comply with federal law, to preserve potential federal grant funding worth $305.2 million annually.
- Meanwhile, Fort Worth postponed a vote to dismantle their DEI department, with the concern that such a move could lead to a loss of up to $277.1 million in federal money and potentially harm women and minority-owned small businesses in the city.
