With Mixed Messages on DEI Initiatives, Employers Advised to Proceed with Caution
February 7, 2025
In recent days there has been a flurry of activity regarding various Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives put forth by the federal government as well as within the private sector.
On day two of his administration, President Trump signed Executive Orders shuttering various government DEI offices and requiring government employees to remove pronouns from their email signatures. Simultaneously, companies including Target have announced changes to their existing DEI programs ranging from scaling back to eliminating previously announced policies. This has led to calls and emails from anxious employers wondering how they should or must proceed when it comes to DEI initiatives in the workplace.
Politics aside, there are some practical concerns from a compliance standpoint for business owners in New York State to consider.
In New York, employers must remain in compliance with the New York State Human Rights Law. The HRL prohibits discrimination against members of protected classes, including age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, sex, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, familial status, marital status, or status as a victim of domestic violence.
New York State employers should review their workplace handbook annually and update them, as needed, with the guidance of an experienced employment attorney.
If you are concerned about the current status of your company’s policy with respect to DEI or the NYHRL, and would like to review your handbook for compliance issues, contact any member of our Employment Law Practice Group.
Our team of employment law attorneys takes a proactive approach when it comes to identifying potential employment issue for our clients. We can work with you before you make changes to your policies or practices to ensure you remain in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Kevin Burke counsels employers on recent developments in employment law, and the implementation of policies and procedures which enable employers to be in compliance with federal and state laws. He can be reached at 716-854-4300 ext. 292 or [email protected]
