EEOC Issues Letter To Fortune 500 Over Workplace DEI Policies

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has issued a letter to chief executives, general counsels, and board chairs of 500 large U.S. employers regarding compliance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

The letter, signed by Chair Andrea Lucas, addresses workplace programmes described as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Lucas stated that employment decisions must not be based on race or sex and urged companies to align hiring and workplace policies with federal law. She said the agency would use statutory tools, including education, compliance reviews, administrative enforcement, and litigation, to address violations.

The letter reflects the stance of the administration of Donald Trump on discrimination matters linked to DEI policies. Lucas noted that the commission regained its quorum in October 2025, allowing it to file cases in federal court, including systemic and pattern or practice lawsuits.