On Thursday, 20 February, President Donald Trump is set to host a reception at the White House in honour of Black History Month. This event will take place in the East Room and is anticipated to attract attention due to its timing and context, particularly following the president’s recent decision to end federal government diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes.

The announcement regarding the cancellation of DEI programmes has sparked a mix of reactions, with Mr Trump referring to these initiatives as “discrimination.” He has issued directives aimed at erasing such programmes, which are viewed by many as essential for promoting diversity and inclusion within governmental and private sectors. Under his administration, there are plans to reduce the workforce involved in DEI efforts, prompting businesses and organisations to shift their focus solely to merit-based practices.

The reception is expected to feature an array of notable Black political figures and activists who have expressed support for Mr Trump. Among the attendees will be Alveda King, a niece of the renowned civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., as well as Republican Senator Tim Scott from South Carolina and former football star Herschel Walker, who has been nominated by Mr Trump to serve as the US ambassador to the Bahamas. This gathering not only aims to celebrate the contributions of the Black community but also aligns with the administration’s current policies that have implications for how diversity initiatives are perceived and implemented.

The Independent has reported on these developments, underlining the significance of the event against the backdrop of the recent policy changes implemented by the Trump administration.

Source: Noah Wire Services