Joint Center Stands Firm on Protecting Funds for House of Representatives’ Diversity and Inclusion Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Aug. 1, 2023

Contact:
Chandra Hayslett, chandra@jointcenter.org

Joint Center Stands Firm on Protecting Funds for House of Representatives’ Diversity and Inclusion Office

WASHINGTON — In response to Rep. Alex Mooney (R-VA) introducing a bill that would eliminate the House of Representatives’ Office of Diversity and Inclusion, the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies issued the following statement:

“Since 2019, the House Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) has been instrumental in supporting diversity among the public servants who work in the U.S. House of Representatives. Passing legislation to eradicate the ODI would derail the goal of creating a more diverse and inclusive environment to strengthen the quality of our nation’s policy debates,” said Jessica Fulton, interim president and VP, Policy at the Joint Center. “The office has dedicated itself to connecting diverse, qualified candidates to careers within the House and providing resources to ensure that the workforce in the House reflects the diversity of America. The ODI is a vital resource to both parties and better equips the House with the required tools to be a true representation of its constituents. The Joint Center stands firm in supporting the ODI and its purpose.”

“The recent actions to eliminate the House of Representatives’ Office of Diversity and Inclusion is indicative of a larger agenda that threatens the progress of civil rights and equity in federal institutions,” said Dr. LaShonda Brenson, senior researcher at the Joint Center. “The efforts to eradicate ODI signifies a step backward in centering diversity and inclusion in federal offices, and follows the termination of diversity offices at the Pentagon; the targeting of school funds that promote diversity programs; and the Supreme Court’s decision that struck down the role of affirmative action in college admissions. This legislation undermines the ODI’s progress in advancing diverse hires in U.S. House offices in a bipartisan way to ensure equitable policies and practices for all Americans.”

About the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies

The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, America’s Black think tank, provides compelling and actionable policy solutions to eradicate persistent and evolving barriers to the full freedom of Black people in America. We are the trusted forum for leading experts and scholars to participate in major public policy debates and promote ideas that advance Black communities. We use evidence-based research, analysis, convenings, and strategic communications to support Black communities and a network of allies.