PBS shuts down DEI office

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PBS has closed its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) office in compliance with President Trump’s executive order, according to NPR.

The public broadcaster receives federal funding for its children’s programming through the U.S. Department of Education and the National Science Foundation.

As a result, its lawyers concluded that compliance with Trump’s order was necessary.

While PBS receives approximately $535 million in government support—about 16% of its budget—this funding is distributed through the private Corporation for Public Broadcasting, making it unclear whether compliance is required.

PBS CEO Paula Kerger stated that the DEI office’s work extended beyond racial equity, including efforts to improve access to programming for children with hearing impairments.

Kerger said Tuesday that “we were committed to telling the stories of all Americans before we had an office, and will continue to do it afterwards.”

As a result of the decision to shut down its DEI office, the employees who worked there will be departing the organization.

“The staff members who served in that office are leaving PBS. We will continue to adhere to our mission and values. PBS will continue to reflect all of America and remain a welcoming place for everyone.”

Source: NPR