The FBI has announced the closure of its Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), a decision confirmed as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office on Monday. The Trump administration has previously expressed opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the federal government, which many have attributed to the agency’s decision.
“In recent weeks, the FBI took steps to close the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), effective by December 2024,” the agency confirmed to Fox News.
While the FBI has not provided a detailed explanation for the closure, the move aligns with criticisms of DEI practices voiced by conservative lawmakers and the incoming administration. Senator Marsha Blackburn recently sent a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray, accusing the agency’s DEI initiatives of compromising its mission. She claimed that these “radical” practices have “endangered” Americans in the aftermath of the New Orleans terrorist attack on New Year’s Day.
“I am deeply concerned that—under your leadership—the Bureau has prioritized Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives over its core mission of protecting the American people,” Blackburn wrote.
Following the announcement, Blackburn posted on social media, “The question is why were they allowed to be focused on DEI in the first place? The FBI should be focused on catching criminals, not winning participation trophies.”
President-elect Trump also weighed in, calling for transparency regarding the closure. “We demand that the FBI preserve and retain all records, documents, and information on the now closing DEI Office—Never should have been opened and, if it was, should have closed long ago. Why is it that they’re closing one day before the Inauguration of a new Administration? The reason is, CORRUPTION!”
The FBI has long emphasized its commitment to diversity. The agency’s website states that the agency is committed to “cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce. In 2015, the FBI added diversity as one of the organization’s core values.”
“We believe that differences in thought and belief, in race and religion, in orientation, and in ability contribute to more effective decision making, drive innovation, and enhance the employee experience. We know that a more diverse workforce allows us to connect with and maintain the trust of the American people. We also understand we have work to do. We stand committed, as today’s FBI, to fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity,” the FBI website stated.
Former FBI special agent Nicole Parker criticized the agency’s DEI focus, describing it as a “dangerous distraction.” In comments to Fox News, Parker stated, “I appreciate all forms of diversity. Make no mistake of that. What I do not appreciate is when there is a constant push for social justice weaponization at the FBI whose top priorities are to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution.”
Parker added. “I have no issue in celebrating whatever you would like regarding your heritage or gender or religion. But that should be done on your own time and not with the U.S. taxpayers’ dollars while on official Bureau time.”
