A resolution affirming that diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are fundamental values of the United States and emphasizing the ongoing need to address discrimination and inequality in the workplace, pre-K through 12th grade and higher education systems, government programs, the military, and our society.
This is a non-binding Senate resolution (S. Res. 240) that declares diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) as fundamental American values and calls for ongoing action to address discrimination and inequality across several sectors—workplaces, pre-K–12 and higher education, government programs, the military, and society at large. It emphasizes that DEIA initiatives advance equal opportunity and are not quotas, cites broad public support and historical bipartisan backing, and highlights extensive data on persistent disparities. The resolution urges federal, state, and local policymakers, as well as educational institutions and workplaces, to adopt and promote inclusive practices, remove barriers, and expand opportunities for all Americans. It does not create new law or funding but signals the Senate’s policy stance and encourages promotive actions.
Key Points
- 1Declares DEIA as essential foundations for achieving the American Dream and for creating safe, healthy, and prosperous conditions where all people can participate fully in society.
- 2Affirms that DEIA initiatives address discriminatory barriers and ongoing discrimination, while clarifying that these initiatives are about equal opportunity, not illegal quotas.
- 3Presents extensive findings on disparities across housing, healthcare, education, employment, lending, and contracting—particularly affecting Black, Latino, Asian American, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, women, and people with disabilities—and argues for federal and other leadership to address these inequities.
- 4Frames opposition to perceived anti-DEIA measures (including Executive orders) and reinforces a federal role in expanding and enforcing anti-discrimination policies and programs.
- 5Encourages adoption of inclusive practices by policymakers, schools, employers, and other organizations, and supports solutions such as career pathways, investment in minority-serving institutions, financial aid access, apprenticeships, mentorship, and other measures aimed at expanding opportunity.