The administration of US President Donald Trump has eliminated an explicit ban on “segregated facilities” such as waiting rooms, restaurants, and drinking fountains for federal contractors, according to a memo issued by the US General Services Administration.
Though the memo was released last month, media outlets widely reported on it on Tuesday following coverage by NPR.
Since taking office on 20 January, Trump has taken multiple steps to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in both the federal government and the private sector. One executive order revoked policies dating back to 1965 on equal employment opportunities, environmental protections for communities of colour, and efforts to promote diversity in federal contractor hiring based on race, gender, and religion. The 1965 order had been intended to eliminate discriminatory hiring and employment practices among government contractors.
The 15 February memo stated that, in line with Trump’s executive order, civil agencies should no longer include the “Prohibition of Segregated Facilities” provision when issuing new contracts or solicitations.
While federal and state laws still prohibit discrimination and segregation, civil rights advocates warned that the move—though largely symbolic—fits a broader pattern in Trump’s policymaking. They cautioned that any step perceived as reversing progress on racial equality was concerning.
“While segregation is still illegal, this change sends a CLEAR message,” civil rights attorney Ben Crump said.
Advocates argue that the policies Trump is rolling back were designed to support marginalised communities and address the long-term impact of systemic inequities. However, Trump and his allies have defended the measures, claiming they aim to eliminate what they describe as discrimination against other groups, including white people and men.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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