Today, under the Trump administration, that dream is turning into a nightmare for millions of Americans. Under the guise of “meritocracy,” the Trump administration has launched a frontal assault on the very concept of diversity, threatening to set the country back decades.
The hypocrisy of “meritocracy”
The Trump administration claims to promote meritocracy. But let’s be honest: how can there be real meritocracy when the game is rigged from the start?
By eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in the federal government, Trump is not promoting meritocracy—he is simply perpetuating a system that favors those who already have privilege. It’s like telling a one-legged athlete that the race is “fair” because everyone starts at the same starting line.
Education: the absolute darkness
On February 19, the US Department of Education gave educational institutions just 14 days to end the use of “affirmative action” in student admissions.
This isn’t just a decades-old policy change – it’s a condemnation to fewer opportunities for thousands of talented young people from minority communities.
Imagine a young girl from a poor neighborhood who dreams of becoming a doctor. With the new policies, her chances of getting into a top medical school are dramatically reduced, not because she’s not smart or hardworking enough, but because the system is now working against her.
Work: The illusion of equal opportunity
In the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) sector, where women made up only a third of workers in 2021, the elimination of targeted recruitment programs is not just a step back – it is a leap forward.
How can we talk about “equal opportunity” when we ignore the systemic inequalities that have shaped our society for centuries? Abolishing these programs is not “justice” – it is the perpetuation of injustice.
What else can we expect in the future?
Based on the Trump administration’s actions so far, we can predict the following developments:
- Intensifying the Elimination of Diversity Programs
The government seems determined to continue dismantling any initiatives that promote equality, both at the federal and state levels. This may lead to a reduced awareness of diversity issues, reinforcing existing inequalities.
- Restriction of the Rights of the LGBTQ+ Community
The policy of recognizing only two genders is expected to be strengthened, with possible legal and social consequences for transgender and non-binary people. Bans on educational programs that promote acceptance of diversity may increase, affecting the younger generation.
- Intensification of Social Polarization and Division
Continuing these policies will likely deepen the divide between Trump’s supporters and opponents. This could lead to increased social tensions, protests, and intense social automation.
- Influence on Education and the Media
The Trump administration may attempt to influence the education system, banning curricula or books deemed “woke.” At the same time, the media may be pressured to adopt a more “traditional” narrative, influencing public debate.
- Resistance from Civil Society
Despite the administration’s policies, human rights organizations, activists, and civil society are expected to react forcefully. Legal challenges, protests, and awareness campaigns may limit the impact of Trump’s policies.
The need for action
The Need for Action
The Trump administration’s diversity policies aren’t just wrong – they’re dangerous. They threaten to further divide an already polarized society and turn the tide.
It’s time to stop hiding discrimination behind euphemisms like “meritocracy.” It’s time to recognize that America’s true strength lies in its diversity.
We need policies that embrace diversity, not fight it. We need leaders who understand that equality doesn’t mean treating everyone the same, but giving everyone the opportunities they need to succeed.
The fight for diversity is not just a fight for rights – it’s a fight for the soul of progress. And it’s a fight we can’t afford to lose.
