Indiana Governor Mike Braun signs Executive Orders

Indiana Senate Democrats denounce Governor Braun’s elimination of DEI Initiatives

Contributed By: The 411 News

Indianapolis – The Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus denounced Governor Mike Braun’s executive order today eliminating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives within state government.

“Governor Braun’s decision to dismantle DEI programs is a devastating misstep of Indiana’s values and potential,” said Sen. Shelli Yoder (D-Bloomington) and chair of the Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus. “DEI initiatives add immense value to every corner of our state – they foster innovation, attract top talent and create opportunities that strengthen families, businesses and communities alike.”

This regressive action ignores the proven benefits of DEI efforts and threatens to undermine Indiana’s progress toward building a state that works for all Hoosiers, Yoder said.

Governor Braun’s Executive Order 2025-14 replaces DEI in state government with MEI – Merit, Excellence, and Innovation.

The order directs agencies to examine policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in “Students for Fair Admissions v President and Fellows of Harvard College.” The Court ruled race could not be used as a factor in college admissions.

EO 2025-14 states, “The Supreme Court explained that ‘eliminating racial discrimination means eliminating all of it'. It is universal in its application.”

The order eliminates the use of state funds, property, or resources to support diversity, equity, and inclusion positions, departments, activities, procedures or programs if they grant preferential treatment based on one person’s particular race, color, ethnicity or national origin over that of another person.

The order also closes Indiana’s Chief Equity Inclusion and Opportunity Office.

“This decision is not just a step backward; it’s a direct attack on the values of equity and inclusion that should define us as a state,” said Sen. Andrea Hunley (D-Indianapolis). “Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity for Indiana to thrive in the modern era. Stripping DEI efforts are a disservice to every Hoosier who believes in fairness and opportunity.”

“The Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus, which proudly represents the diversity of Indiana, remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing policies that promote equity, opportunity and inclusion for all. This is not a partisan issue – it’s a matter of ensuring our state’s future success,” Hunley said.

“By dismantling DEI efforts, this administration is ignoring the realities faced by millions of Hoosiers,” said Sen. Rodney Pol, Jr. (D-Chesterton). “Our government should be a model of fairness and opportunity, not a barrier to it. This is not about politics; it’s about doing what’s right for every Hoosier.”

“The Caucus calls on Governor Braun to reverse this harmful decision and work with lawmakers to strengthen policies that reflect the values of fairness, respect and inclusivity. Hoosiers deserve a government that recognizes diversity as a strength, not a liability,” Yoder said.

Story Posted:01/15/2025