The Trump administration’s recent termination of federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEIA) roles has swiftly impacted NASA. Acting Administrator Janet Petro issued a memo instructing the closure of DEIA offices and the cancellation of related contracts, just a day after the executive order. This decision comes despite NASA’s ongoing efforts to diversify its workforce and achieve milestones like landing the first woman and person of color on the Moon.
NASA’s DEIA History and Recent Recognition
NASA has been recognized for its diversity efforts. In 2023, it was lauded as a top employer for diversity in the U.S. The agency’s DEIA initiatives began in 2012, with “inclusion” added as a core value in 2020. A 2021 report by NASA’s Office of Inspector General indicated that the workforce comprised approximately 35% women and 30% minorities. In 2022, NASA launched its first equity action plan to address diversity and accessibility challenges and support underrepresented communities.
The Memo and Justification for Closure
Petro’s memo, however, signals a departure from these initiatives. The memo states that DEIA programs “divided Americans by race, wasted taxpayer dollars, and resulted in shameful discrimination.” The website for NASA’s Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity now displays a “404 Not Found” error. The memo emphasizes that these actions align with Trump’s executive orders and a template provided by the Office of Personnel Management.
Concerns about Concealed Contracts
The memo also cautions against breaching the new order, suggesting attempts within the agency to hide contracts related to diversity programs. “We are aware of efforts by some in government to disguise these programs by using coded or imprecise language,” Petro’s memo warns. Employees are instructed to report any contract or position description changes made since November 5, 2024, that might obscure connections to DEIA.
Wider Impact on Federal Agencies and STEM Diversity
NASA is not alone; other federal agencies like the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health are also facing mandatory termination of their diversity programs. These actions raise concerns about the broader impact on diversity in STEM fields, where underrepresentation remains a significant issue.
Historical Perspective and Ongoing Challenges
NASA’s first diverse astronaut class, including the first African-American, Asian-American, and female astronauts, was selected in 1978. This highlights the historical challenges of diversity in space exploration. Beyond NASA, Black and Latino students disproportionately leave STEM programs compared to their white peers. A 2019 study revealed that approximately 40% of Black and 37% of Latino STEM undergraduates switched majors, compared to 29% of white students.
The Importance of Continued Inclusion Efforts
Even with the prospect of a diverse lunar landing team, ongoing efforts towards inclusion on Earth remain crucial. The termination of these programs raises significant questions about the future of diversity and representation within NASA and the broader scientific community.
