A website called “DEI Watch List” has sparked widespread fear and alarm by publishing the photos, names, and public information of federal health workers who have been involved in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The website, which appears to be a project of the conservative watchdog group American Accountability Foundation, lists mostly Black employees working in agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services.
Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, condemned the website as a “scare tactic” and “clear racism.” A government worker who was listed on the website expressed concerns about their safety, stating that it’s easy to find their home address and other personal information online.
The creation of the DEI Watch List website comes amid a broader crackdown on DEI initiatives within the federal government. Employees at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have received memos directing them to terminate activities related to DEI and report coworkers who don’t comply. The memos have created a climate of fear and paranoia among CDC staffers, with some being placed on administrative leave for perceived infractions.
The memos direct employees to “review all agency position descriptions and send a notification to all employees whose position description involves inculcating or promoting gender ideology that they are being placed on paid administrative leave effective immediately.” The memos also warn employees that they will be subject to disciplinary action if they fail to comply.
Despite the harassment and intimidation, public health employees remain committed to their work. “If I leave, who’s going to replace me?” a CDC physician asked. “If nobody replaces me and enough of us leave, then who’s going to be doing the public health work?”
The online harassment and intimidation of federal health workers must stop. These individuals are dedicated public servants who are working tirelessly to protect the health and well-being of the American people. They deserve our respect, our gratitude, and our protection.
In conclusion, the DEI Watch List website and the memos directing CDC employees to terminate DEI activities are a disturbing trend of online harassment and intimidation. It is essential that we take a stand against this kind of behavior and work to create a climate of respect, inclusivity, and openness. We must protect the federal health workers who are being targeted and ensure that they can continue to do their vital work without fear of harassment or intimidation.