DEI ≠ DOA: It's All About The Design

Federal contractors who want to continue receiving federal funding, while also maintaining their diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility ("DEIA") policies and programs, can often feel like they are juggling glass balls. And conservative campaigns that push companies to eradicate DEIA programs entirely, add another level of external pressure. Adjustments in the design and presentation of existing initiatives can still achieve compliance and avoid potential legal risks, at the same time.

This article examines the Department of Justice's ("DOJ") recently released guidance for recipients of federal funding and offers some practical steps for employers who want to modify their established DEIA programs and policies, rather than quash them. The adjustments discussed in this article are offered to help contractors maintain government financial support and minimize potential legal risks, and are applicable to companies in the private sector as well.