Former President Donald Trump just secured the White House for the second time. What does this mean for DEI efforts at U.S.-based companies?
Previously, Trump prohibited some DEI trainings for federal workers. But some of his policies may affect marginalized workers in the private sphere, including working class people, working parents and immigrants.
Diversity: Immigration policy
Trump has taken an undeniably anti-immigration stance since the 2016 election campaign trail. In that time, employers have voiced concern and frustration about Trump’s policies, and the strain it has created on maintaining a robust workforce.
Equity: Raising wages for working-class people
Previously, Trump voiced support for a $10 minimum wage and, later, a $15 minimum wage — however, he then appeared to recant that statement during the 2020 debate, saying it may hurt small businesses.
Earlier this year, Trump said he plans to end taxes on tips, as well as overtime pay.
Equity: The right to organize
Trump’s relationship with labor organizations is fraught: He was critical of labor unions in his past presidency. He also previously made moves through the National Labor Relations Board to reduce workers’ organizing rights and make it easier for employers to break up unions.
Still, despite his animosity for unions, certain stakeholders, such as Sean O’Brien, general president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, have appeared supportive of him.
Along with Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., Vice President Elect J.D. Vance co-sponsored the Teamwork for Employees and Managers Act of 2024. The goal is to foster negotiation between employees and employers “without fear of legal action or bureaucratic meddling, a practice currently prohibited by existing labor laws,” per the press release.
Inclusion: Paid leave for working parents
Previously, Trump proposed a budget requiring states to fund six weeks of paid leave for new parents, via unemployment insurance. Vance has expressed support for a national paid leave program and the desire for more childcare options for working families.
The bottom line
Once Trump is inaugurated, employers could see changes coming down the pike from the NLRB regarding labor organization.
Likewise, tighter immigration laws and reduced taxes on pay could be on the table; some kind of protections for working parents may also be in store.
