Amtrak, one of America’s leading railroads, has decided to end its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in line with new regulations from the federal government. The move reshapes the company’s identity, which had been known for its diversity efforts in previous years. The change, announced in an internal memo sent to company employees by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy on February 6, is seen as a reflection of the government’s harsh stance against DEI initiatives.
The Impact of Federal Regulations: Trump's Executive Order and the Supreme Court Decision
Amtrak’s decision to end DEI programs parallels President Donald Trump’s executive order issued on January 23, which requires all federal agencies to eliminate diversity and equity policies. Trump’s decision may be influenced by the Supreme Court decision that struck down affirmative action in college admissions. Chief Justice John Roberts has emphasized that discrimination based on race must end. This has led to the end of practices that promote diversity in the workplace.
Amtrak's Workplace Strategy and New Goals
Amtrak plans to shift its focus to broader workplace inclusion after winding down its DEI efforts. CEO Stephen Gardner released a statement emphasizing Amtrak’s commitment to creating a welcoming workplace culture. The statement suggests the company is now taking a more inclusive approach without specific diversity goals. Amtrak announced that DEI-related content has been removed from its website, and diversity reports published prior to 2020 are no longer accessible.
Amtrak’s achievements in recent years regarding its DEI goals have also been notable. In 2023, Forbes listed Amtrak as one of the Best Employers for Diversity. The company’s former chief human resources officer, Qiana Spain, attributed the recognition to the company’s inclusive workplace policies and long-term commitment to diversity.
Ending Remote Working Arrangements
In addition to Amtrak ending its DEI programs, the company is also reportedly rolling back its remote work arrangements. Employees will be required to return to the office four days a week. This policy will go into effect on March 3 and aligns with another executive order from the federal government encouraging a return to the office.
Amtrak expects all employees to return to the office to comply with federal regulations, but department heads may grant exemptions in some cases. The end of remote work is another example of the company’s changing workplace policies.
Reactions to the Ending of Diversity Programs
Amtrak’s decision to end DEI policies has been met with support from some, but also harsh criticism from some critics, who argue that eliminating DEI programs reduces opportunities for underrepresented groups. These critics point out that diversity policies create equal opportunities in the workplace, providing opportunities for employees from different backgrounds.
On the other hand, some advocates believe that DEI policies create unnecessary complexity and that these changes will help companies create a more merit-based workplace culture. They argue that workplace policies should be shaped by skills, performance, and experience.
Amtrak's New Direction: An Inclusive Workplace Culture
Amtrak plans to focus on overall workplace inclusion efforts after winding down its DEI programs. The company’s leadership argues that all employees are valued and that an inclusive environment should be built not only through diversity but also through a broader workplace culture of shared goals. However, the long-term impact of these changes remains uncertain. While some employees support these changes, others are concerned about potential negative changes to workplace culture.
Future Directions and Impacts
Amtrak’s decision to end its DEI programs is an indicator of how not only the company’s workplace policies will evolve, but also how government workplace regulations will evolve on a broader level. As discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion continue, it’s important to understand how large companies like Amtrak adapt to these changes. The company’s future is likely to be shaped not only by new government regulations, but also by societal and institutional expectations for diversity and inclusivity in its workforce.
